Redness appears due to the fact that proteins are filled with blood. This is due to changes in the blood vessels that supply the membrane covering the front of the eye. The conjunctiva is a membrane that covers the front of the eye and the back of the eyelids.
The blood vessels of this membrane can expand, causing red eyes.
It is important to remember that redness of the eyes, accompanying acute, aching or throbbing pain, as well as pain that intensifies in the light, needs urgent medical attention. Other serious symptoms include headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, or vomiting.
The most common reasons for this are:
- An infection, for example, caused by bacteria.
- Allergic reaction.
- Inflammation.
Home remedies for eye redness
Depending on the cause, red eyes can often be cured at home.
Here are some suggestions:
- Regularly put a cool compress on your eyes, soaking clean cotton wool or cloth in cold water, and then squeezing it.
- Avoid eye makeup or choose hypoallergenic products.
- Use artificial tears that are available over-the-counter at pharmacies.
- Use antihistamine drops if redness is caused, for example, by seasonal allergies. They are also sold over the counter.
- If you plan to use any other eye drops, then talk to your doctor first, as some of them may increase redness.
To prevent red eye from appearing or worsening:
- Avoid smoke, pollen, dust and other irritating factors.
- Do not wear contact lenses until redness disappears.
- Always clean the lens thoroughly and do not reuse disposable lenses.
- Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes to prevent infection.
- Wash clothes, pillowcases, and towels regularly.
- Bathe or take a shower before bedtime or after returning from the street if you have a seasonal allergy.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun, pollen, or dust outside.
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the surface of the eye, and it has several different causes.
- Bacteria or viruses. Often accompanied by secretions associated with bacteria. You can get rid of them by wiping your closed eyelids with water or a compress. Never use the same compress in two eyes. If symptoms persist after a week, then you should consult a doctor. If the cause is bacterial, you may need antibacterial eye drops.
- Cold or flu. This type of redness usually spreads quickly, affecting both eyes.
- Allergy. Seasonal allergies, such as allergies to pollen or animals, often cause eye redness.
- Irritation. It is divided into physical irritation caused by contact with the eye and chemical irritation, for example, after bathing in a chlorinated pool. In most cases, such conjunctivitis goes away without medical attention.
Other, more serious causes and treatments
Blepharitis
Symptoms include itching, redness, peeling, and crusting at the edges of the eyelids. This is a common form of inflammation that can be caused by bacteria or gland problems under the eyelids.
To prevent complications, medical attention may be required.
Stye
Redness usually appears due to a bacterial infection. In this case, a warm compress can help. Apply it three to four times a day for a week. This will help unlock the pores of the eyelids.
But first, it is better to consult a specialist. Even surgical removal of formations that do not heal or interfere with vision may be required.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage
This damage to a blood vessel is a harmless condition that usually goes away in a week or two. The cause may be severe coughing, blood disorders, or high blood pressure.
Dry eyes
Artificial tears will help to cope with this problem. If dry eyes are associated with a working environment or with prolonged use of a computer, appropriate measures must be taken. An example would be safety glasses in a dusty environment or interruptions in screen work.
Corneal Scratch or Abrasion
Damage to the surface of the eye is not in itself a serious problem, but needs medical attention to prevent deterioration and infection or an ulcer. If there is something in the eye, the doctor will remove it.
Uveitis
Inflammation affects the inside of the eye and especially the one that is responsible for color. This may affect vision. An eye specialist will prescribe the medicine.
Glaucoma
This serious illness can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness. It is caused by increased pressure inside the eye. Symptoms (redness, vision problems, eye pain, headache, nausea, vomiting) can appear only in the later stages. Glaucoma requires the attention of a specialist.
To summarize, let us once again bring together the symptoms in which you should definitely consult a doctor:
- Profuse discharge from the eye.
- Pain in the eye.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Double vision.
- Headache.
- Nausea.
Do not hesitate to see a doctor and be healthy!
