•Dr Priscilia Imade
Bloodshot eyes, also known as red eyes or conjunctival injection, occur when the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in the conjunctiva – the clear membrane covering the whites of the eyes – become dilated or inflamed.
This dilation and inflammation give the eyes a red or pinkish appearance, often accompanied by sensations of itchiness, irritation, or dryness.
Common Causes of Bloodshot Eyes
Environmental factors: Exposure to dry air, smoke, dust, pollen, or pollutants can irritate the eyes and lead to redness.
Allergies: Allergic reactions to airborne allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, or mold, can cause eye inflammation and redness.
Eye strain: Prolonged periods of reading, staring at screens, or focusing on close-up tasks without breaks can strain the eyes and result in redness.
Dry eye syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can lead to dryness and irritation, contributing to bloodshot eyes.
Conjunctivitis: Commonly known as pink eye, this contagious infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva can cause redness, itchiness, and discharge.
Contact lens issues: Improper hygiene, overwearing, or sensitivity to contact lens solutions can lead to eye irritation and redness.
Eye injuries: Scratches, foreign objects, or trauma to the eyes can cause redness and discomfort.
Medical conditions: Certain systemic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders can affect eye blood vessels and lead to red eyes.
Symptoms and Presentation
The signs and symptoms associated with bloodshot eyes may include:
Red or pinkish appearance of the whites of the eyes.
Sensation of dryness, itchiness, or irritation.
Watery eyes or excessive tearing.
Discharge or crustiness, especially in cases of conjunctivitis.
Sensitivity to light (photophobia) in some cases.
Management
The management of bloodshot eyes depends on the underlying cause:
Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can help alleviate dryness and soothe irritated eyes.
Allergy medications: Antihistamines or allergy eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve allergy-related redness.
Warm compresses: Applying a warm, damp cloth to the eyes can help improve circulation and relieve eye strain.
Avoiding triggers: Minimizing exposure to allergens, smoke, dust, or other irritants can prevent or reduce redness.
Proper eye care: Practicing good eye hygiene, including regular cleaning of contact lenses, following recommended wear schedules, and avoiding rubbing the eyes excessively.
Medical evaluation: If redness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms, seeking medical evaluation is crucial to identify and address any underlying conditions.
While mild cases of bloodshot eyes often resolve with home remedies and lifestyle adjustments, it is important to visit the eye clinic if:
Redness persists or worsens despite self-care measures.
Redness is accompanied by pain, vision changes, or discharge.
There’s a history of eye trauma, injury, or foreign object exposure.
Symptoms are severe, recurrent, or affecting daily activities.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
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