Chemosis is swelling of the tissue that lines the eyelids and surface of the eye (conjunctiva).
Fluid-filled conjunctiva; Swollen eye or conjunctiva
Chemosis is a sign of eye irritation. The outer surface of the eye (conjunctiva) may look like a big blister. It can also look like it has fluid in it. When severe, the tissue swells so much that you can't close your eyes properly.
Chemosis is often related to allergies or an eye infection. Chemosis can also be a complication of eye surgery, or it may occur from rubbing the eye too much.
Causes may include:
Over-the-counter antihistamines and cool compresses placed on the closed eyes may help with symptoms due to allergies.
Call your health care provider if:
The provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms, which may include:
Your provider may prescribe eye medicine to reduce swelling and treat any conditions that may be causing the chemosis.
Fernandez A, Asbell P, Roy N. Emerging therapies targeting eosinophil-mediated inflammation in chronic allergic conjunctivitis. Ocul Surf. 2022;26:191-196. PMID: 35970432 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35970432/.
Kumar NM, Barnes SD, Pavan-Langston D, Azar DT. Microbial conjunctivitis. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 112.
McNab AA. Orbital infection and inflammation. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 12.14.
Rubenstein JB, Kelly E. Infectious conjunctivitis. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 4.6.
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