What is a black eye?
What Causes a Black Eye? A black eye is not uncommon after an injury to the face or the head. Even a minor impact to the face can result in a large, angry-looking “shiner.” The swelling and trademark black-and-blue color occurs when small blood vessels in the face and head break, and blood and other fluids collect in the space around the eye. The majority of black eyes are relatively minor bruises that heal on their own in a about three to five days. As the bruise heals, the swelling around the eye decreases, and the skin color often goes from black and blue to green and yellow. Sometimes, a black eye is a warning sign of a more serious head, face or eye injury. Two black eyes after an impact to the head shouldn’t be taken lightly; it may indicate a severe head injury such as a skull fracture. While rare, a black eye may also indicate damage to the eyeball itself. Black Eye Signs
