Everyone has emotions and can express them freely. Occasionally crying can help release negative emotions. However, crying too much can be harmful to the body, especially when the eyes become red and swollen after crying for a long time. What causes this and how can we reduce the swelling?
Reasons for Redness and Swelling
The eyelids are thin and loose with abundant blood vessels. There is a thin layer of orbicularis oculi muscle inside the eyelids, which allows the eyelids to close and open in a timely manner. When crying, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated, causing blood vessels to dilate. The color of the congested blood vessels can be seen through the thin eyelids, making the eye circles appear red. In addition, when crying, the orbicularis oculi muscle contracts forcefully, blocking the return of blood in the eyelids. The fluid in the blood vessels seeps out and accumulates in the loose eyelids, causing them to appear swollen.
Methods to Reduce Swelling
1. Cold Compress
First, put ice cubes in a plastic bag (to prevent the ice cubes from melting and getting wet), then wrap the ice cubes with a towel and apply them to the eyes for a moment. The specific duration depends on the severity of the redness and swelling.
2. Cold Spoon
Freeze a spoon in the refrigerator, then use the back of the spoon (the protruding side) to apply it to the red and swollen area of the eyes. This can quickly stop bleeding and reduce swelling of broken blood vessels.
3. Cold Eye Mask
If you usually use eye masks, you can put them in the refrigerator and then use them as usual. Even if your eyes are not red and swollen, using a cold eye mask in summer can help reduce water retention.
4. Cold Water Face Wash
If you have been crying outside, you can wash your face with cold water or cup your hands and immerse your eyes in water. Repeat several times to alleviate redness and swelling.
5. Massage
Gently massage the area around the eyes with your fingertips, using a tapping motion. Start from the lower eyelid and move towards the upper eyelid near the brow position. Repeat several times, using gentle and repetitive movements.
