Overview

A black eye is bruising and swelling around the eye or the eyelids. The swelling from your black eye may get worse over the next couple of days. After that, the swelling should steadily improve until it is gone.

The bruise around your eye will change colours as it heals. The skin may turn from black and blue to green, yellow, and brown before it returns to its normal colour. It may take 1 to 3 weeks to return to normal.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin.
• Protect your eye from further injury. Until your eye is healed, avoid activities where it could get hit.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.