Chemosis

chemosis

Chemosis is swelling of the thin, clear membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It looks like a puffy, translucent ballooning of that membrane, often making the eye appear watery or like there is a clear blister on the surface. People with chemosis may feel fullness, discomfort, or the sensation that something is in their eye, and they may have trouble fully closing the eyelids. The swollen membrane is filled with fluid, and it can move or ripple when the eye blinks or when you touch the eyelids gently. Many different things can cause this swelling, including allergic reactions, eye infections, eye injury, irritation from contact lenses, and reactions after surgery. It can also happen when there is pressure or poor drainage of blood or fluid around the eye, which requires attention because it can point to other health problems. Treatment depends on the cause: simple cases from allergies often get better with antihistamine drops, cold compresses, and avoiding the trigger, while infections need antibiotics and severe fluid buildup may require more specialized care. Left untreated, chemosis can make it hard for the eye to stay closed and can lead to dryness or damage to the clear front surface of the eye, which can threaten vision. You should see a health professional if the swelling is sudden, very painful, affects your vision, or is accompanied by fever or worsening symptoms so the correct cause can be found and treated.