Bloodshot Eyes (Red Eye)

What causes bloodshot eyes?

When it comes to the reason for bloodshot eyes, if your eye is painless, it is usually caused by a minor eye condition. These conditions don’t tend to affect your vision, and many often get better within a week or two with minimal intervention, but others may indicate something more serious.

Causes of a red eye include:

• Iritis: Iritis is inflammation of the iris, the coloured part of the eye. You may have a red eye, sensitivity to light, blurred vision and/or a headache.

• Blepharitis: A common condition which causes redness, swelling and irritation of the eyelids.

• Burst blood vessel (subconjunctival haemorrhage).

• Anterior uveitis: Inflammation of the middle of the eye which may be accompanied by eye pain, light sensitivity, floaters and/or vision problems.

• Conjunctivitis: A viral or bacterial infection of the thin layer of tissue that covers the front of the eye and inner surfaces of the eyelid.

• Corneal ulcers: A Corneal ulcer can cause redness, light sensitivity, pain, and the feeling of there being something in the eye. Severe cases can result in permanent damage if left untreated.

• Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a multifactoral disease of the optic nerve, which is often symptomless, but sometimes results in symptoms including redness, pain, nausea, haloes around lights, and blurred vision. Untreated, it can lead to permanent sight loss.

• Scratched eye: Scratched eyes can be caused by fingernails or foreign particles like grit getting into the eye. This results in painful red eyes. Opticians have specialist equipment and drops to help.

• Dry eyes: Insufficient or poor‑quality tears cause discomfort, soreness, and redness. They’re‑ usually easily treatable with eye drops and home remedies.

• Stye: Small, painful lumps that form either on or inside the eyelid, which can cause the eye itself to become watery and red.

• Scleritis: Scleritis is a form of eye inflammation associated with autoimmune disorders including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

• Alcohol and/or drug misuse: Alcohol and substance abuse can result in red, bloodshot eyes, which can become chronic in some cases.

Can I get rid of bloodshot eyes?

In many cases bloodshot eyes will clear up on their own without requiring any treatment. However, depending on what’s causing the condition, there are a variety of bloodshot eye treatments that can help you manage symptoms and reduce discomfort. In severe cases, further tests and ongoing treatment may be required.

Home remedies and self‑care

• Eye drops: Over‑the‑counter eye drops can be used to lubricate dry eyes and soothe irritation.

• Cold or warm compresses: Gently pressing a cold compress over your eyelids may help to reduce inflammation and redness, particularly if you’re suffering as a result of allergies like hayfever, where the eyes can become itchy. Warm compresses may help in cases of dry eyes & blocked glands.

• Allergy medication: If an allergic reaction is causing your red eyes, taking antihistamine medication can help to address the underlying allergic response and alleviate physical symptoms. Speak to your optician about eye drops that will also help.

Medical treatment

• Prescription medication: If over‑the‑counter options don’t seem to be helping, or the problem is recurring, your GP (or and independent prescribing optometrist) can prescribe prescription bloodshot eye treatments. This may take the form of anti‑bacterial eye drops, steroid eye drops, or ointments.

Conclusion

Bloodshot eyes are a very common eye symptom that most of us will encounter. In the majority of cases, they aren’t problematic and won’t need treatment, but for some they could be a sign of other conditions like conjunctivitis or anterior uveitis.

Generally, maintaining good eye and overall health is enough to reduce a person’s risk of red eyes. Having your eyes tested regularly at your local Specsavers will ensure you can flag any concerns, get advice and manage any conditions that may be detected.