Swollen or puffy eyes normally develop as you age. However, in some cases, puffiness can be a sign of a severe medical condition.
In this post, your local eye doctor, Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, discusses the causes of puffy eyes.
Causes of Puffy Eyes
Aging causes the tissues around the eyes to become weak. The fat that supports the eyes then moves to the lower lids, hence the puffy appearance. Bags or bulges will begin developing under the eyes. Fluids can also settle under your eyes, which contribute to the swelling.
Your eyes can appear puffier after waking up because you don’t blink in your sleep. Fluids in the eyes become entrapped as you sleep, and they are brought back to circulation once you’re awake. This puffiness usually goes away within an hour.
Other factors that affect the development of puffy eyes include too much salt intake, allergies, sinus problems, fatigue, stress, sinus problems, crying and inherited facial features.
Sometimes, puffy eyes can be a warning sign of an underlying medical problem. Visit your eye doctor regularly to monitor your eye health.
When You Need to Visit a Doctor
Bulging eyes can be an indication of a thyroid disease called Grave’s disease. Eye allergies like hay fever or reactions to chemicals and food can result in swollen eyes. Your body produces histamine during an allergic reaction, which can cause fluid leakage from the blood vessels. The fluids get stuck in eye tissues, resulting in edema.
Eye infections like pink eye often result in puffy, swollen eyelids and dark circles. Also, kidney failure causes swelling throughout the body, including the areas around the eye.
Routine eye exams are important in making sure your eyes are in good condition. Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is your local provider of eye care services. We offer quality eyeglasses and contact lenses. Call us at (703) 467-9080, or complete our online form to request an appointment. We serve patients in and around Reston, VA.