Bruising
or Black Eye (Ecchymosis)
What
is ecchymosis or bruising of the eye?
Ecchymosis, or more commonly known as a "black eye," usually occurs from some
type of trauma to the eye, causing the tissue around the eye to become bruised. Your child's physician will examine the eye closely to make
sure there is no damage to the actual eye itself.
Treatment for a black
eye:
Specific treatment for a black eye will be determined by your child's physician based
on:
-
your
child's age, overall health, and medical history
-
extent
of the injury
-
your
child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or
therapies
-
expectations
for the course of the injury
-
your
opinion or preference
Most
black eyes heal completely and do not cause any damage to the eye.
Treatment may include:
-
cold
compresses to the eye for the first 24 hours
-
warm
compresses to the eye after the first 24 hours
-
continued
compresses until the swelling stops
-
keep
the child's head elevated to help decrease the amount of swelling
It
is important to know that the swelling and bruise may appear to
spread and go down the cheek or to the other eye. This is normal.
Consult your child's physician if the bruising and swelling does not
resolve on its own.
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