Symptom

Swollen eyelid

Spreading redness needs urgent care

Clinically reviewed · Last reviewed 2026-06-13

When to get urgent help

  • Spreading redness and swelling around the eye, especially with fever
  • Eye pain, blurred or double vision, or difficulty moving the eye
  • Swelling so severe you cannot open the eye
  • Swelling after an insect sting or a sudden allergic reaction with breathing problems

Common causes

Most swollen eyelids come from a blocked gland, a local infection, or an allergy.

Stye A tender red lump at the lid edge from a blocked, infected gland. Chalazion A firm, usually painless lump from a blocked oil gland. Blepharitis Inflamed, swollen lid margins that are sore and crusty. Conjunctivitis Allergic or infective conjunctivitis can puff up the lids.

What can help

  • Apply a warm compress for styes and chalazia to help them drain
  • Use a cool compress and avoid rubbing for allergic swelling
  • Avoid eye make-up and contact lenses until the swelling settles

Frequently asked questions

Why is my eyelid swollen?

The most common causes are a stye, a chalazion, blepharitis, or an allergy. Most settle with warm or cool compresses, but spreading redness with fever needs urgent care.

When is a swollen eyelid an emergency?

Seek urgent care if redness and swelling spread around the eye, especially with fever, eye pain, double vision, or difficulty moving the eye, as this can signal a deeper infection.

How do I reduce eyelid swelling?

Use a warm compress for a stye or chalazion and a cool compress for allergy. Avoid rubbing, eye make-up, and contact lenses until the swelling settles.