Red and Bloodshot Eyes: Common Causes, Treatment

Red and bloodshot eyes are a common issue that can affect one or both of your eyes. The redness typically occurs when the blood vessels on the surface of the eye become enlarged and dilated. This can be due to a range of factors and conditions, some of which are more serious than others. Understanding the root cause of red eyes is the first step towards finding an effective treatment.
 

Common Causes of Red Eyes

Red eyes can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is dry eye syndrome, a condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears to stay properly lubricated. In other cases, red eyes might be a result of too much screen time, which can lead to digital eye strain. Allergies are another common culprit, causing inflammation and redness.

Infections, such as conjunctivitis, can also cause red eyes. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lines the inside of your eyelid and covers the white part of your eye. In more serious cases, red eyes could signal something more serious, such as glaucoma or uveitis, which require medical attention.

Symptoms Associated with Red and Bloodshot Eyes

Red and bloodshot eyes can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. These may include itchiness, a burning sensation, irritation, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of grittiness or a foreign body in the eye. You might also notice a discharge from the eye, which can be watery, stringy, or thick and yellowish, like pus.

In some cases, red eyes might be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a headache, fever, or joint pain. These additional symptoms might indicate a more serious condition, such as uveitis or glaucoma, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

 

Understanding Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a common cause of red and bloodshot eyes and can occur in several forms, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. Viral conjunctivitis, often caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold, is characterized by watery, itchy eyes and sensitivity to light. Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria and can result in thick eye discharge, redness, and irritation.

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs as a response to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This type of conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes and causes itching, redness, and excessive tearing. Lastly, giant papillary conjunctivitis is a type of allergic conjunctivitis that typically affects people who wear contact lenses.

 

When to See an Optometrist for Red Eyes

While red eyes often resolve on their own, it's important to know when to seek professional help. You should see an optometrist if your red eyes persist for more than a week, if they're accompanied by severe pain or vision problems, or if they're associated with sensitivity to light or a severe headache.

If your red eyes are due to an injury or if they're accompanied by a discharge, you should seek immediate medical attention. Also, if your red eyes are associated with a pre-existing condition like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, you should consult an optometrist to ensure that the redness isn't related to a more serious eye condition.

 

Available Treatment Options

The treatment for red eyes depends on the underlying cause. For instance, if your red eyes are due to dry eye syndrome, your optometrist may recommend artificial tears or other forms of eye lubricants. If allergies are to blame, you might need to use antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines.

For red eyes caused by infections, like conjunctivitis, treatment might involve antibiotic or antiviral eye drops. In more serious cases, such as those involving uveitis or glaucoma, treatment might include corticosteroids or other types of prescription medication.

 

Preventive Measures to Avoid Red Eyes

Here are a few preventive measures you can take to avoid this common issue. First, make sure to protect your eyes from harmful environmental factors. Wear sunglasses to protect them from the sun and wind, and avoid smoke and other air pollutants as much as possible.

Second, maintain good eye hygiene. Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid sharing items like towels or makeup that can spread infections. If you wear contact lenses, clean them properly and avoid wearing them for longer than recommended.

Finally, take regular breaks from screen time to prevent digital eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule, which suggests looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes, can be particularly helpful.

Regular check-ups with an optometrist are vital for maintaining good eye health. An optometrist can detect early signs of eye conditions that might cause red eyes, such as dry eye syndrome or conjunctivitis, and provide treatment before these conditions become more serious. Regular check-ups also allow the optometrist to monitor the health of your eyes and adjust your treatment as necessary.

Managing Red Eyes Effectively

Red and bloodshot eyes are a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, from dry eye syndrome and digital eye strain to allergies and infections. Although red eyes are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, making it important to seek medical attention if your red eyes persist or are accompanied by other symptoms.

To learn more about the causes and treatment options for red eyes, visit Advanced Vision Institute in our Las Vegas, Nevada, offices. Please call (702) 819-9800 to schedule an appointment today