Causes and risk factors
Chemosis is caused by allergies, conjunctivitis – viral or bacterial, angioedema. Post eye surgery, hyperthyroidism, cavernous sinus thrombosis, dacryocystitis can lead to chemosis. Urticaria, lupus are the predisposing factors for chemosis.
Clinical presentation
Patient presents with red, swollen appearance of the conjunctiva, difficulty in closing the eyes fully, excessive tearing of the eyes. Patient experiences double vision.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Complete ophthalmoscopic examination will help in diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment includes use of eye lubricants, medicated eye drops. Cool compresses to reduce inflammation will help in managing chemosis. Medications like antihistamines, if the cause is allergy; antibiotics if the cause is a bacterial infection, can be helpful.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating chemosis. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating chemosis.
