---
title: "Black eye (eye bruise) | Eye Health Guide"
description: "What causes a black eye, how to care for bruising and swelling after a blow, and warning signs that need urgent assessment. Clinically reviewed."
url: https://eyehealthguide.org/conditions/black-eye/
source: Eye Health Guide
licence: "General information only. Cite the URL and the named medical reviewer."
---

Condition

# Black eye (eye bruise)

Medical reviewer [Mr Mohamed Mohyudin](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/mohamed-mohyudin/)· Last recorded site review July 6, 2026

### About this review

This page inherits the site’s previous review record. A separate, current article sign-off has not yet been recorded.

[How review works](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/) · [Official biography & credentials](https://mohamedmohyudin.co.uk/author/mohamed-mohyudin/)

Quick answer

A black eye is bruising and swelling of the eyelids and skin around the eye after an injury, usually a blow or fall. It looks alarming but often heals within one to two weeks. Seek urgent care if vision changes, the eye is very painful, or you suspect a fracture or injury inside the eye.

### On this page ⌄

1. Your next step
2. What it is
3. Common symptoms
4. When to seek urgent care
5. Self-care
6. Related conditions
7. Frequently asked questions

## What it is

A black eye happens when small blood vessels under the skin around the eye leak after trauma, causing blue-black discolouration and puffiness. The bruise may spread and change colour as it heals.

## Common symptoms

Symptoms follow a knock to the face or eye area.

- Swelling and bruising of the eyelids
- Discolouration that may spread to the cheek
- Tenderness and mild discomfort
- Sometimes a small cut on the skin

## When to seek urgent care

Most black eyes are superficial, but a hard blow can damage the eye itself. Seek urgent assessment for double vision, blurred vision, blood inside the eye, numbness, severe pain, vomiting after head injury, or if the injury was from a high-speed object.

## Self-care

Apply a cold compress for 10 to 15 minutes several times in the first 24 to 48 hours. Do not press on the eye. After 48 hours, warm compresses may help bruising fade. Avoid sport until swelling settles and vision feels normal.

## Related conditions

## Frequently asked questions

### How long does a black eye take to heal?

Swelling often peaks in 48 hours and bruising usually fades over one to two weeks. See a clinician if vision is affected or pain is severe.

### When is a black eye serious?

It can be serious if the blow damaged the eye or bones around it. Seek urgent care for vision changes, severe pain, blood in the eye, or head injury symptoms.

### Should I put ice on a black eye?

Yes, a cold compress in the first 48 hours helps reduce swelling. Avoid pressing on the eyeball itself.

Your next step

## Take this to your appointment

Write down what has changed, when it started, your current medicines and the questions you want answered. Take these to your eye-care appointment.

Sudden loss of sight, severe eye pain or a dark curtain across vision needs immediate assessment. Do not wait to complete a worksheet.

## Sources for this information

These references support the information on this page. Follow the linked source for its full context.

- [NHS - Black eye](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/black-eye/)