From the Research
Eye swelling after working out is typically caused by increased blood flow and fluid retention in the tissues around the eyes, and can be reduced by staying well-hydrated and applying a cold compress to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. This can happen when you exercise vigorously, causing blood vessels to dilate and fluid to accumulate in the delicate skin around the eyes. Dehydration during workouts can worsen this swelling, as your body tries to retain water.
Key Points to Consider
- To reduce eye swelling, stay well-hydrated before, during, and after exercise by drinking 16-20 ounces of water before working out and 7-10 ounces every 10-20 minutes during exercise.
- Applying a cold compress to your eyes for 10-15 minutes after working out can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, as supported by the use of cryotherapy in managing chronic pain 1.
- Elevating your head while resting can also help drain excess fluid.
- If you notice that eye swelling occurs consistently after workouts, consider wearing protective eyewear during exercise to minimize sweat irritation, and avoid touching your eyes with sweaty hands.
- Persistent or severe eye swelling may indicate an allergic reaction to something in your exercise environment or a more serious condition, so consult a healthcare provider if swelling doesn't improve with these measures or is accompanied by pain, vision changes, or severe redness.
Relevant Studies
- A study on cryotherapy 2 suggests that it can diminish the inflammatory reaction to trauma and reduce edema, which can be applied to reducing eye swelling after working out.
- Another study on edema management 3 highlights the importance of evaluating the underlying cause of edema and using targeted treatments, such as compression therapy, to reduce swelling.
- A review of chronic edema management 4 emphasizes the need for skin care and compression therapy to prevent skin breakdown and reduce swelling.
- A study on compression therapy 5 suggests that it can be an effective treatment for chronic edema, but more research is needed to determine the optimal application and duration of compression therapy.