Stay away from athletic or other possibly injurious activities until after the eye has healed. Forget the old adage about putting a steak or piece of raw meat on a black eye. There is no scientific evidence that this will help. In addition, there is a danger in putting potentially bacterial-laden meat on a mucous membrane or open skin injury. Swelling does not start to improve after a few days.
Severe pain continues.
You have changes in vision or behavior. The swelling is not related to an injury. You are unsure about treatment or concerned about symptoms. Swelling after a bee sting near the eye, or from a suspected infection, also should be evaluated by a doctor. The doctor will ask about the facts regarding the injury and look for any associated injuries or symptoms while doing a physical exam.