Eye Infections
Eye infection is yet another common cause of swollen eyelids. It is a common disease usually caused by irritation or minor eye injuries aggravated by harmful microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
Some eye infections that usually lead to swollen eyelids include:
- Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) is a bacterial inflammation caused by clogged oil glands at the base of the eyelashes.
- Cavernous sinus thrombosis (blood clot in the cavernous sinuses) is a rare condition caused by a blood clot in the jugular vein resulting in an infection.
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye) refers to the viral infection of the conjunctiva, usually caused by either adenovirus, herpes simplex virus, or varicella-zoster virus, among others.
- Endophthalmitis (inflammation of the inside of the eye) is a rare condition caused by an infection of the intraocular tissues or fluids, occasionally resulting in swollen eyelids.
- Ocular herpes (eye herpes) is an infection of the eyes and the cornea caused by the type 1 herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). It usually resolves independently, though it can remain dormant for years.
Regardless of the origin, eye infections are usually characterized by clear, yellow, or green discharge, crusty lids and lashes, pink color in the eye “whites,” swollen lymph nodes, swollen eyelids, and fever.
