What is eye redness
Eye redness is a common problem that has many causes. Eye redness is also known as a bloodshot eye and indicates the presence of many different health problems. Eye redness appears when the small blood vessels on the surface of the eye become enlarged and crowded.
Some causes of redness are very worrying and you should go to the doctor immediately, and others can be treated at home because it is a simple cause such as a slight irritation. or blurry vision.
Common causes of eye redness
Inside the eye there are two layers known as the sclera layer and the conjunctival layer, and between them there are tiny blood vessels. Swelling of these tiny blood vessels can occur, and common causes are that the cause of redness is allergies, eye strain, wearing contact lenses a lot of time, or common eye infections such as eye Rosacea (conjunctivitis). Common causes of bloodshot or red eyes include:
- Airborne allergens such as air pollution and smoke from fire or cigarette smoke.
- Dry air like closed offices.
- dirt.
- Airborne vapors such as benzene or solvents.
- Exposure to chemicals such as chlorine in swimming pools.
- Excessive exposure to sunlight when going out without sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays.
- dry eyes
- Wearing contact lenses constantly or without sterilizing them.
- Eyestrain, such as sitting in front of a phone or computer for a long time, or irregular sleep.
- Bleeding in the subconjunctival layer area.
- The presence of infections in the eye.
- Trauma or injury to the eye.
- Modern eye surgery such as LASIK and eye plastic surgery.
- iritis.
- Acute glaucoma.
- Corneal ulcer occurrence.
- Intraocular blepharitis.
How does eye redness go ?
Eye redness caused by common causes such as allergies, conjunctivitis, or blepharitis, eye redness can be easily treated at home and some of the home remedies that can be done are:
- A clean piece of cotton or clothing can be dipped in cool water (cold compress). A cold compress on a closed eye several times a day will help reduce symptoms such as redness and swelling.
- Using over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as antihistamines or decongestants. These are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that reduce eye redness. Some medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are also available over the counter to reduce swelling and provide relief.
- Artificial tears can be used without a prescription and help relieve red eyes and remove irritants. It is recommended to keep them in the refrigerator.
- Irritants such as pollen, smoke, or fumes should be avoided.
- Wash hands frequently and avoid contact with eyes and the surrounding area.
- In case of eye redness, avoid wearing contact lenses.
- It is recommended to reduce the time of looking at the screen, such as the phone, TV or computer screen, because they cause eye fatigue and dryness.
If the redness of the eye is accompanied by changes in vision or the presence of pain inside the eye, you should go to the doctor. The doctor makes a diagnosis, and depending on the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes a treatment that helps relieve symptoms