What should I do if my eyes have red blood vessels?
Jul 29, 2020
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
What to do about bloodshot eyes:
1. Use eye drops—such as artificial tear eye drops—applying one or two drops per use; using them once or twice daily effectively hydrates and soothes the eyes.
2. Gently massage the area around the eyes to help improve capillary elasticity.
3. Apply a cold compress to the eyes to constrict surrounding blood vessels.
4. Medication: Under a physician’s guidance, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed.
Red blood vessels (subconjunctival capillary dilation) in the eyes may result from excessive eye strain, visual fatigue, or internal “heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to inflammatory or hypermetabolic conditions). These factors can all contribute to the appearance of red blood vessels in the eyes. So, what should you do if your eyes show red blood vessels? Below, we address this question.
What to Do When Eyes Show Red Blood Vessels
1. Use Eye Drops
Applying eye drops is an effective way to alleviate red blood vessels in the eyes. If redness is accompanied by symptoms such as itching, dryness, or aching discomfort, lubricating eye drops—such as artificial tears—may be used. Typically, one or two drops per application, administered once or twice daily, can effectively moisturize the eyes and replenish essential nutrients and hydration. However, overuse should be avoided. It is advisable to consult a physician to select appropriate eye drops tailored to your specific condition, thereby preventing potential adverse effects.
2. Massage Around the Eyes
Massaging the periocular area for 10 minutes daily—three to five times per day—or performing eye exercises can help reduce red blood vessels. Specific acupoints—including Zanzhu (BL2), Jingming (BL1), Sibai (ST2), and Taiyang (EX-HN5)—can also be gently massaged. This stimulates local acupoints, improves ocular circulation, enhances capillary elasticity, alleviates redness, and contributes to overall eye health.
3. Apply Cold Compresses
Cold compresses are beneficial when red blood vessels appear. They cause vasoconstriction around the eyes, soothe irritation, and reduce redness. To apply: close both eyes and place a cold, damp towel—or a towel-wrapped ice pack—over the eyelids for 10–15 minutes, twice daily. Alternatively, commercially available chilled eye masks may provide soothing relief.
4. Pharmacological Treatment
Medications may be prescribed under medical supervision to treat underlying inflammation causing red blood vessels. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended to prevent worsening of inflammation. Additionally, avoid prolonged visual tasks, and consciously blink more frequently—ideally at least five times per minute—to maintain ocular surface moisture and effectively relieve redness.
The above outlines practical approaches to managing red blood vessels in the eyes. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
