Eye Care

Pediatric Eye Center
Earl Crouch Jr., MD
Earl Crouch III, MD
Medical/Surgical Eye Specialists, Inc.
Shakur Toosi, MD
Virginia Ophthalmology Associates
Joel Lall-Trail, MD
Annette Reda, MD

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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Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.

Last reviewed on 9/30/2005