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Overview
A black eye usually heals.
Blood in the front of the eye is serious.
When to get medical care
Call 911Something in the eye, or misshapen eye.
Get care todayVision changes, blood in the eye, or double vision.
See a doctor soonPain lasting days.
Causes
Caused by blunt trauma.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause hit in the eye. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Eye injury from a hit (black eye, bleeding inside the eye, or broken eye socket)Often needs care today
A blow to the eye can cause a black eye, blood pooling in the front of the eye (hyphema), or a break in the bones around the eye.
What you can do at home
- Cold compress (no pressure).
Medicines
Depends on injury.
At the doctor
An eye exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Injury
The exam
An eye exam.
Tests
- CT if needed
Prevention
Protect eyes.
- Wear goggles
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.