A black eye is often a minor injury, but it can also appear when there is significant eye injury or head trauma. A visit to your doctor or an eye specialist may be required to rule out serious injury, particularly if you're not certain of the cause of the black eye.

For a "simple" black eye:

• Apply cold compresses intermittently: 5 to 10 minutes on, 10 to 15 minutes off. If you are not at home when the injury occurs and there is no ice available, a cold soda will do to start. If you use ice, make sure it is covered with a towel or sock to protect the delicate skin on the eyelid.
• Use cold compresses for 24 to 48 hours, then switch to applying warm compresses intermittently. This will help the body reabsorb the leakage of blood and may help reduce discoloration.
• If the child is in pain, give acetaminophen (not aspirin or ibuprofen, which can increase bleeding).
• Prop the child's head with an extra pillow at night, and encourage her to sleep on the uninjured side of her face (pressure can increase swelling).
• Call your child's doctor, who may recommend an in-depth evaluation to rule out damage to the eye. Call immediately if any of the following symptoms are noted:
  • increased redness
  • drainage from the eye
  • persistent eye pain
  • any changes in vision
  • any visible abnormality of the eyeball
  • visible bleeding on the white part (sclera) of the eye, especially near the cornea

If the injury occurred during one of your child's routine activities such as a sport, follow up by investing in an ounce of prevention - protective goggles or unbreakable glasses are vitally important.