Different factors can trigger eye redness. How to recognize them and what are the treatments?
- Different factors can cause redness in the eyes. This is particularly the case for conjunctivitis and dry eyes.
- Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye which can result in red eyes, itching and swelling of the eyelids.
- Red eyes can be signs associated with medical emergencies like angle-closure glaucoma.
Looking at yourself in the mirror, you notice that you have red eyes. Several causes can promote the appearance of eye redness. During an interview with the Cleveland ClinicDr. Nicole Bajic, ophthalmologist, revealed the six causes that may be responsible for eye redness.
Dry eyes, conjunctivitis… Factors that cause red eyes
Dry eyes due to allergens, the use of screens, medications or the environment, can be characterized by red eyes. This phenomenon occurs when the production of tears decreases and the eyes are no longer protected against external attacks.
To treat dry eyes, you can put a few drops of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory eye drops in your eyes. In a few minutes, your eyes are relieved. However, Dr. Nicole Bajic warns of the risks associated with the use of eye drops marketed specifically to reduce eye redness. “These drops narrow the surface blood vessels so your eyes look whiter (…) But as the blood vessels are constricted, your eyes get less fluid, which dries them out more, and the redness comes back with a vengeance. a vicious circle”she warned.
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye which can result in itching, a burning sensation, swelling of the eyelids and especially red eyes. For mild to moderate cases of conjunctivitis, the inflammation goes away on its own without treatment within a few days. If the symptoms related to conjunctivitis persist, it is recommended to consult your doctor who will prescribe antibiotic treatment.
Another factor at the origin of ocular redness: the rupture of blood vessels. You can worry when you see small burst vessels in your eyes. However, this mild clouding is usually mild and does not affect your vision. It can occur in the event of intense rubbing of the eyes, after taking certain medications such as anticoagulants or following an effort during an intense cough. An improvement in the appearance of the ocular blood vessels will be visible a few weeks after the rupture. “Consider using artificial tears if you experience some irritation”recommended the ophthalmologist.
Eye redness: emergencies to watch out for
An infection caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus can result in red eyes. It could be a serious infection if the red eyes are associated with pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. If left untreated, an infection can cause erosion of the surface of the eyes that can permanently damage them. In case of infection, consult your ophthalmologist quickly to receive the appropriate treatment.
Uveitis is an umbrella term for all eye diseases that cause red eyes, eye pain and inflammation. Smokers are more at risk of developing these types of eye pathologies, but uveitis can also be due to an injury to the eye, an infection (herpes or varicella virus) or an inflammatory disease. “Immediate treatment can limit tissue damage and possibly restore lost vision”said Dr. Nicole Bajic.
Closed-angle glaucoma is an ophthalmological emergency “where the iridocorneal angle, formed by the joining of the periphery of the iris on the deep layer of the cornea, is very narrow”, according to the Macùla Institute. Eye redness is one of the main symptoms of this pathology. It may also be accompanied by severe pain, decreased visual acuity, nausea, and vomiting. To limit the risk of aggravation, angle-closure glaucoma must be treated quickly.
