How can I get rid of swollen upper eyelids

I have had swollen upper eyelids since Sept 19, 2008 and have been prescribed and have taken Claritin-D, Benydryl, Zaditor and have even been prescribed and taken steroid packet for 6 days along with Bactrim antibiotic.  None of this has helped, Zaditor made things worse, can't use it.  I have tried cold and hot compresses, tea bags.  I don't have any pain, have even stopped wearing makeup and nothing has helped.  I only have upper eyelid swollen with the right eye being the worse.  It looks like they are retaining water.

[Joan M Pernoud, MD]

Several thoughts:

1) This is probably not allergy since you have not responded to allergy medications.

2) Salty meals can make lids swell. I notice it with Chinese food especially.

3) You should go to your doctor to check for thyroid, heart, or kidney disease.

4) Sleep on several extra pillows to raise your head so gravity pulls the fluid out, use cool compresses, do not eat salty food in the meantime.