Learn About Chemosis
Chemosis is swelling of conjunctiva the tissue that lines the eyelids and surface of the eye.
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 completely.
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:
- Angioedema
- Allergic reaction
- Bacterial infection (conjunctivitis)
- Viral infection (conjunctivitis)
Over-the-counter antihistamines and cool compresses placed on the closed eyes may help with symptoms due to allergies.
Contact your health care provider if:
- Your symptoms do not go away.
- You can't close your eye all the way.
- You have other symptoms, such as eye pain, change in vision, difficulty breathing, or fainting.
The provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms, which may include:
- When did it start?
- How long does the swelling last?
- How bad is the swelling?
- How much is the eye swollen?
- What, if anything, makes it better or worse?
- What other symptoms do you have? (For example, breathing problems)
Your provider may prescribe eye medicine to reduce swelling and treat any conditions that may be causing the chemosis.
Advocate Medical Group Neurosurgery
Demetrius Lopes is a Neurosurgery provider in Park Ridge, Illinois. Dr. Lopes is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chemosis. His top areas of expertise are Brain Aneurysm, Stroke, Arteriovenous Malformation, Thrombectomy, and Stent Placement.
Yasuhiro Takahashi practices in Okazaki, Japan. Mr. Takahashi is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Chemosis. His top areas of expertise are Thyroid Eye Disease, Chemosis, Dacryoadenitis, Endoscopy, and Trabeculectomy.
Duke Neurological Disorders Clinic - Clinic 1L
Erik Hauck is a Neurosurgery provider in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Hauck is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chemosis. His top areas of expertise are Brain Aneurysm, Arteriovenous Malformation, Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Stent Placement, and Transmyocardial Revascularization. Dr. Hauck is currently accepting new patients.
Published Date: April 29, 2025
Published By: Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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