Red eyes: Causes and Treatment

Article

Redness is the result of dilation or inflammation of the blood vessels on the surface of the eye, which can be caused by many different factors.

Η conjunctivitis can be caused by a bacterium, a virus or an allergy and is manifested by redness, swelling and itching in the eyes, as well as increased tear production. Conjunctivitis often resolves within a few days without the need for specific treatment. Often cold compresses are enough to make the redness subside. Depending on the cause of conjunctivitis, your doctor may recommend specific treatment.

Η allergy has as main symptoms, redness, itching and sensitivity of the eyes. Common allergens that cause these symptoms are dust, pollen, detergents and animal hair. Cold compresses over the eyes and washing the face with plenty of water help to relieve the discomfort. Also, consult your doctor to recommend special eye drops or antihistamine medication.

Η lack of sleep is another reason. Without adequate rest, the amount of oxygen reaching the eyes decreases, so the blood vessels dilate and the eyes become red. Also, little sleep means that the eyes are left open for longer hours during the day and this results in the cornea that covers the outside of the eye not being properly hydrated, drying out and turning red. Artificial tears and cold compresses on the eyes offer temporary relief, but only adequate rest can prevent redness in the future.

The contact lenses prevent good oxygenation of the eye, causing irritation and redness when used for long hours or during sleep. Following the manufacturer's instructions and cleaning the lenses well protects the eyes from future discomfort. For immediate relief in case of irritation, the use of eye drops is recommended.

The alcohol causes the small blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, resulting in more blood passing through them. The higher the alcohol consumption, the more intense the blushing. You can treat the symptom with artificial tears for the eyes, but as the alcohol is gradually removed from the body, the redness subsides on its own.

The glaucoma is a serious eye condition characterised by damage to the optic nerve. One of the first symptoms of a type of glaucoma called acute closed-angle glaucoma is redness, as well as blurred vision and pain in the eyes. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness, which is why it is imperative to see a doctor as soon as the first symptoms appear.

Finally the subtext (haematoma in the sclera) occurs when a blood vessel just below the surface of the eye breaks and blood is «trapped» in the eye, which appears as a red spot on the sclera, the white part of the eye. Although it looks serious, the hypophagus is not painful nor does it affect vision. It is caused by strain, for example due to excessive exercise or lifting a heavy object or even by a sneeze, loud cough or vomiting. The hypophlegm resolves on its own without special treatment within a few days.

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