There are many different causes of red eyes that occur when blood vessels on the eye’s surface dilate; these conditions may be minor and resolve on their own or require medical intervention.
What are the most prominent causes of red eyes?
This symptom appears in various forms, such as red spots or a network of capillaries, and is attributed to several factors:
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Environmental and Behavioral Factors:
- Contact Lenses: These increase the risk of irritation, inflammation, and corneal ulcers because they obstruct oxygen flow to the eye.
- Lack of Sleep: Sleep deprivation leads to the dilation of blood vessels due to oxygen deficiency and causes dry eyes.
- Alcohol: It causes small blood vessels to dilate, creating a red network in the white of the eye.
- Allergies: An immune response to dust, pet dander, pollen, or detergents.
- Eye Strain: Such as staring at screens for long periods.
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Medical Conditions and Infections:
- Conjunctivitis: A viral or bacterial infection that causes swelling and itching.
- Stye on eyelid: Bumps resulting from a bacterial infection that appear on the eyelid margin and cause swelling.
- Glaucoma: Increased intraocular pressure that can lead to optic nerve damage; redness here often appears in the corners.
- Other Inflammations: Such as blepharitis, iritis, or keratitis.
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Injuries and Bleeding:
- Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: A ruptured blood vessel that forms a red spot, occurring due to strong coughing, sneezing, vomiting, strenuous exercise, or rubbing the eye vigorously. These are common painless red eye causes.
Treatment Options for Red Eyes
Treatment depends on the underlying trigger, and options include:
Medicinal Treatments (Drops)
- Decongestants: These narrow the blood vessels and are used for mild itching and irritation, but are not recommended for more than 72 hours to avoid rebound redness.
- Antihistamines: Used for allergies; it is preferable not to use them for more than 3 consecutive days.
- Lubricants (Artificial Tears): Treat dryness caused by screens or lenses; preservative-free types are preferred.
- Specialized Treatments: A doctor may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections or drops to lower eye pressure in cases of glaucoma.
When to Visit a Doctor?
Medical care should be sought immediately in the following cases:
- Sudden changes in vision or seeing halos around lights.
- Red eye with pain, severe headache, or fever.
- Feeling that a foreign body is in the eye or exposure to a chemical.
- Severe swelling or inability to open the eye.
- Nausea or vomiting accompanying the redness.
It is also advised to schedule an appointment if the redness persists for several days, or if thick purulent or mucous discharge appears for a week or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes sudden red eyes?
This may result from a ruptured blood vessel due to a strong sneeze or cough, a foreign object entering the eye, or a rapid allergic reaction.
What causes red eyes in newborn babies?
Redness may appear in newborns due to pressure changes during birth (subconjunctival hemorrhage) or due to a bacterial or viral infection. You must consult a doctor before using any drops for children.
Are red eyes from high blood pressure dangerous?
Yes, if the redness is caused by high intraocular pressure (glaucoma), it can lead to vision loss if left untreated, especially if accompanied by pain or blurred vision.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Medical drops should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women or patients with glaucoma without medical supervision.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team