Bloodshot eyes

Bloodshot eyes, also known as red eyes, occur when the blood vessels on the surface of the eye become enlarged and congested with blood. This condition can result from a variety of causes, ranging from minor irritations to more serious health concerns. Bloodshot eyes are often a symptom rather than a condition in themselves and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, pain, or visual impairment.

Causes

Bloodshot eyes can be caused by several factors, including:

• Eye strain or fatigue, often resulting from prolonged periods of screen time or reading in low light.
• Dry eye syndrome, where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to stay properly lubricated.
• Allergies, which can cause inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
• Infections such as conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye), which can be viral, bacterial, or allergic in nature.
• Injury or trauma to the eye, which can cause blood vessels to break.
• Environmental factors, such as exposure to smoke, dust, or other irritants.
• Substance abuse, including the excessive consumption of alcohol or the use of certain drugs.
• Health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which can affect the blood vessels in the eyes.

Symptoms

In addition to the characteristic redness, symptoms of bloodshot eyes can include:

• Itching or burning sensation
• Increased tear production or watery eyes
• Discharge from the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision or visual disturbances

Treatment

Treatment for bloodshot eyes depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness.
• Antihistamine eye drops for allergies.
• Proper hygiene and over-the-counter medications for mild infections.
• Rest and avoiding eye strain.
• Cold compresses to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• In more serious cases, prescription medications or treatments may be necessary, as advised by a healthcare professional.

Prevention

Preventive measures for bloodshot eyes include:

• Taking regular breaks during tasks that strain the eyes.
• Maintaining good eye hygiene, especially when wearing contact lenses.
• Using humidifiers in dry environments to keep the eyes moist.
• Wearing protective eyewear in windy, dusty, or potentially hazardous environments.
• Managing allergies and avoiding known allergens.
• Limiting exposure to irritants such as smoke and chemicals.

See Also

• Conjunctivitis
• Dry eye syndrome
• Eye strain
• Visual impairment