Unpredictable red eye infections could be indicative of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, with symptoms including thick, gritty eye discharge.
Antihistamine eye drops or tablets can provide temporary relief of symptoms by controlling itching, while vasoconstrictors help shrink blood vessels to decrease redness.
1. Sensitivity to Light
Light sensitivity, known medically as photophobia, occurs when exposed to bright lights which causes pain or discomfort and leads to the individual to either close their eyes in an effort to block out bright illumination, squint, squint more quickly or close them completely to reduce exposure. Light sensitivity could be indicative of more serious eye problems like uveitis or ruptured blood vessel that require treatment immediately.
If you experience dry eye symptoms, visit your physician immediately. They may conduct a slit-lamp examination or MRI to identify what’s causing them, then prescribe artificial tears, medication or suggest lifestyle changes like wearing sunglasses when out and using humidifiers at home; additionally they might recommend stopping any medications which increase risk.
2. Pain
Pain may not be the primary symptom of red eye, but it could indicate more serious health concerns. A red and painful eye could indicate infection or ruptured blood vessel issues that require medical intervention to resolve.
Eye reddening may also be indicative of other serious conditions, including corneal ulcer and uveitis. If these symptoms arise, seek medical advice immediately from your healthcare provider.
Avoiding pollen and pet dander as well as using a humidifier are some effective strategies for preventing red eyes. Antihistamines or decongestants may help, while switching contact solution can also reduce irritation. A gentle cleanser and moisturizing drops may provide relief.
3. Itching
Red eye itching can be extremely uncomfortable, often the result of irritation. Decongestants and antihistamines may provide temporary relief; however if other symptoms such as pain or vision changes persist then consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Most cases of red eyes are due to swollen or dilated blood vessels on the white outer surface of the eye, usually disappearing within one week on their own. On occasion, red eyes may signal more serious problems like acute angle-closure glaucoma which requires immediate medical intervention and must be treated immediately.
4. Watery Eyes
Watery eyes can be caused by infection or injury to the cornea; or can indicate more serious conditions, like glaucoma (which could result in loss of vision) or corneal ulcers that require urgent treatment.
Some causes for red eyes are harmless and can be treated using home treatments or over-the-counter medication, like decongestants and antihistamines to relieve itchy eye symptoms or help lubricate them; but others require diagnosis and specific prescription medication, like eyedrops/ointments to treat conditions like hordeola or chalazion, or antibiotics in cases of pink eye.
Apart from getting sufficient rest and not wearing contact lenses, try avoiding smoke, pollution, dust and other irritants as well as frequent handwashing to help avoid or reduce red eye. All these steps may help prevent or lessen its occurrence.
5. Eye Discomfort
Red eyes get their bloodshot look when the blood vessels that cover the white portion of their eyes (sclera) become enlarged for various reasons; such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), dry eye syndrome or ruptured blood vessel.
Subconjunctival hemorrhages, commonly associated with coughing or straining, can sometimes form on the surface of an eye, appearing as bright red spots on its surface. While typically harmless, frequent appearance or other symptoms could indicate it should be examined further by medical personnel.
Many causes of red eye can be treated effectively with rest or an OTC lubricating eye drop, but rubbing your eyes may introduce dirt or germs that aggravate it further. Avoid doing this to protect yourself.
