How to Get Rid of a Black Eye

No matter how you got it, whether you were in a bar room brawl, or walked into a door, a black eye is unsightly, and difficult to conceal. Black eyes are caused by miniature hemorrhages that occur when there is trauma to the ocular cavity and cheekbone. If you are the unfortunate recipient of one, then here are three ways to help get rid of a black eye, and get your face back to normal.

Anything Cold that is Handy

If you are away from home, and receive a blow to the face that you believe will result in a black eye, the first thing you should do is head to the local supermarket or gas station. Purchase anything that is cold. The colder the object you can locate, the better. It doesn’t matter if it is a can of soda, or a bag of peas, applying a cold compress to the face will help alleviate the swelling before it even begins.

Ice

If you are home, run to the refrigerator and take out a handful of ice. If the ice is in cube form, place it in a plastic bag and take a hammer to it. Crushed ice works the best because it is more pliable, and will cover your swollen eye and cheek more effectively. Keep the bag pressed firmly against the effected eye for as long as possible. Once the ice from the first bag has melted, replace the contents,and reapply it to the face. You should repeat these steps for at least 24 hours. If your hand becomes too fatigued to continue this process, then it might be a good idea to tape the bag of ice directly to your face, and give your arm a rest.

Take Acetaminophen

If you don’t have a problem taking over the counter medications, then take 2 acetaminophen. Do not take aspirin. Both drugs are anti-inflammatories, but aspirin will make it difficult for your blood to clot, and this is something that you do not want to occur. Also, avoid blowing your nose. You may have a fracture in your nasal cavity on top of any damage to your eye, so blowing your nose will only harm your situation.

If you feel that he blow sustained was excessive, or if you lose consciousness, seek medical attention immediately. The time it takes from the initial injury and swelling, to your face returning to normal may take several days, or weeks. Don’t get discouraged!