Swelling or Bruises with Intact Skin (including a Black Eye)

• Initially, apply a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth to the area for 20 minutes per hour to reduce the bleeding. Repeat for 4 consecutive hours.
• A black eye usually takes 1 to 2 days to develop.
• A flame-shaped bruise of the white of the eyeball is also common. (called a subconjunctival hemorrhage)
• After 48 hours, apply a warm wash cloth for 10 minutes 3 times per day to help reabsorb the blood.