Claúdio Ferreira Nurse Coordinator LUZ 24 A ' black eye ' is due to the rupture of blood vessels around the eyes, with blood loss without skin damage . A bruise forms, the skin is uninjured and blood collects underneath. A 'black eye' is a bruise in the eye region; It occurs following trauma in the region of the eyes, nose, forehead or face; These injuries can even be very mild without any serious consequences; the 'black eye' happens because it is a very sensitive area with many blood vessels . However, a 'black eye' can also result from a major accident and have serious consequences. As a result, there are signs that cannot be ignored and mean that medical attention is needed. What to do at home If there was a light trauma, eg something is thrown and inadvertently hit the area with no strength, we need to wait for it to pass . There is no specific treatment. To relieve pain and counteract inflammation, apply cold as soon as possible after trauma: Use an ice pack or other source of cold, protected with a cloth or towel, without applying the cold source directly to the skin; Apply to the area, without pressure, for 15 to 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours for at least the first 12 hours after the trauma. If necessary and there is no medical contraindication, an over-the-counter analgesic (eg paracetamol) may be taken at an age-appropriate dose. How long does it take for a 'black eye' to disappear With a light trauma, the problem usually resolves within 1-2 weeks , but it can also take longer. The appearance is not always the same, a 'black eye' is not always black . At the time of trauma the area become red and swollen; Swelling may get worse on the first day; Afterwards, the area darkens and turns purple, it is the typical 'black eye'; When it starts to get better, it turns greenish, then yellowish and finally disappears. When to seek medical care Whenever any of the following symptoms occur following a head trauma, medical care should be sought: Vision disorders like blurred vision or double vision; Traces of blood in the eyes either in the white area (sclera) or in the colored area (iris); Difficulty moving the eyes; Severe eye pain; Nausea or vomiting; External local bleeding; Changes in the nose profile or shape; Difficulty breathing; Fever. If you need to, call LUZ 24 – 217 104 424 – the Hospital da Luz clinical triage service, by phone, available 24 hours, 365 days, for adults and children. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
