From the Research
The medical term for puffiness under the eyelid is periorbital edema, which refers to swelling around the eye area due to fluid accumulation in the tissues. This condition can be caused by various factors including allergies, sinus infections, crying, lack of sleep, aging, fluid retention, or underlying medical conditions like thyroid disorders or kidney problems.
Causes and Treatment
- The causes of periorbital edema can be categorized into infectious, inflammatory, or tumors, medication-related, and post-surgical or trauma, as noted in a study published in the journal Current Opinion in Ophthalmology 1.
- Treatment depends on the cause but may include cold compresses, elevating the head while sleeping, reducing salt intake, antihistamines for allergies, or prescribed medications for underlying conditions.
- In some cases, cosmetic treatments like eye creams containing caffeine, retinol, or vitamin C may help reduce the appearance of puffiness.
Importance of Medical Evaluation
- If periorbital edema persists, is severe, or is accompanied by pain, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider as it could indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention, as highlighted in a study published in the American Family Physician journal 2.
- A thorough evaluation, including a basic metabolic panel, liver function tests, thyroid function testing, and other targeted tests, can help determine the underlying cause of periorbital edema.
- In cases of acute unilateral lower-extremity edema, immediate evaluation for deep venous thrombosis with a d-dimer test or compression ultrasonography is necessary, as noted in the same study 2.