Black Eye Basics How It Happens and How to Heal

A black eye— also known as a periorbital hematoma— is a common injury that causes bruising and discoloration around the eye. It may look alarming, but in most cases, it’s not serious and can be treated at home.

- Dr. Hareesh K V Abhishek

What Causes a Black Eye?

A black eye usually happens when the area around the eye is hit by a blunt force. The trauma causes tiny blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin to break, leading to bleeding beneath the skin’s surface. This results in swelling, pain, and the characteristic dark discoloration.

Common causes include:

• Sports injuries

• Falls or accidents

• Physical fights

• Post-surgical effects (especially around the face)

• Sinus infections (rarely)

Symptoms

• Swelling and bruising around one or both eyes

• Redness or discoloration that turns from purple to blue, green, and yellow as it heals

• Pain or tenderness around the eye

• Blurred vision or difficulty opening the eye (in some cases)