In an eye contusion, or bruise, blood from small blood vessels leaks under the skin near or around the eye. Kids with an eye contusion often have soreness, swelling, and skin color changes around the eye.

Most contusions heal within 1–2 weeks and don't cause any lasting problems.

To reduce swelling of the bruise, for the first 2–3 days: 

• While your child is awake, gently put ice wrapped in a cloth on the bruised area. Do this for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times a day. Do not put ice directly on the skin. Be careful not to put pressure on the eye itself when doing this.
• If your child is old enough to use pillows, add an extra pillow to help raise their head during sleep.
• You can give medicine for pain if your health care provider says it's OK. Use these medicines exactly as directed:
  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)
  OR
  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Do not give to babies under 6 months old.

Your child has: 

• pain when moving the eye
• pain that gets worse and isn't helped by pain medicine
• a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

Your child:

• has bleeding from the bruised eye area
• complains about blurry or double vision
• can't move the eye up or down or side-to-side
• is vomiting

How does a child get a black eye? Kids can get a black eye after getting hit in the face with something like a ball or a stick. Sometimes they happen when bones around the eye (the orbit or "eye socket") are injured. Serious head injuries (like skull fractures) also can cause a black eye. 

Some black eyes are the result of fighting or bullying at school. If you think your child is being bullied, discuss your concerns with your child's teacher or the school psychologist. 

Can eye bruises be prevented? To help prevent bruises around the eye, your child should wear the right protective gear during sports and activities. Regular eyeglasses can't protect the eyes from physical injuries.