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A black eye is bruising and swelling around your eye, usually caused by a blow to the area, such as a punch or fall. It should get better within 2 to 3 weeks.
There are things you can do yourself to ease any pain or swelling from a black eye.
gently hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a cloth to the area around your eye for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time, and repeat regularly during the first 1 to 2 days
take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, for any pain
after the first 2 days, gently apply a warm (not hot) heat pack or cloth to the area around your eye regularly during the day
do not take aspirin unless prescribed by a doctor, as this can make the bruising worse
do not press or rub the area around your eye
do not put ice directly on your skin
You have a black eye and:
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
