Puffy eyes are one of many symptoms of having the flu. Congestion in the nose can make its way into your sinuses, causing the eyes to swell. Luckily, puffy eyes are easy to treat.


Flu is caused by contact with the Influenza virus. Symptoms can include congestion, puffy eyes, body aches, fever, sore throat, cough and chills.


The flu virus is spread when someone who has the flu sneezes or coughs, sending the virus into the air, where other people come in contact with it. It can also be picked up by touching things that have been handled by someone who has the flu.


Congestion is caused when nasal passages, sinuses and lungs fill with excess fluid. The buildup of this fluid can cause the eyes to swell. Most congestion can be treated with over-the-counter medication.

Puffy Eye Treatment

You can treat puffy eyes by placing a cold compress over your eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. Reapply until the swelling has gone away.

Flu Treatment

You can treat the flu by getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids. You can also take over-the-counter medication to make other flu symptoms more comfortable.


If flu symptoms don't go away after a week, seek medical attention.

About the Author

Based in Los Angeles, Calif., Sameerah Blue has been writing professionally since 2000. She has been a contributing writer for "Step Magazine," "Rapport Magazine" and "Highland Park News." She is also a writer and editor for the blog Ectomag.com

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