How to Relieve Black Eyes

A black eye is a bruise that occurs as a result of a buildup of fluid and blood in the area. Although it might be the result of a minor accident, if your injury is more severe you should consult with a physician to be sure that no further head trauma has occurred. With approval, you can then begin to relieve the black eye yourself using just a few household items.

Things You'll Need

• Cold compress
• Clean rags
• Warm compress
• Acetaminophen

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a cold compress on the area in intervals of 10 minutes on, followed by 10 minutes off. You can do this several times throughout the day. A cold compress can be bought from a store in the form of an ice pack, or you can make one by wrapping a few ice cubes in a clean rag. This will help relieve the swelling and decrease internal bleeding in the area.

• 2

  Switch to using a warm compress after 24 to 48 hours of using the cold one. By applying heat to the area, you'll relieve the black discoloring or bruising. If necessary, you can make a warm compress by rinsing a clean towel in warm water and applying it to the eye.

• 3

  Take acetaminophen according to the directions on the packaging in order to relieve pain associated with the black eye, such as a headache or dizziness. Aspirin or ibuprofen should not be used instead since they could potentially increase bleeding.