What causes red bloodshot eyes?

Apr 19, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

Redness and bloodshot eyes may result from increased blood circulation after drinking alcohol, causing dilation of blood vessels due to alcohol stimulation. It could also be caused by bacterial infection of the conjunctiva, in which inflammation leads to the expansion of conjunctival capillaries, forming a spider-web-like pattern of red veins. Additionally, when the conjunctiva comes into contact with external allergens, it may trigger eye congestion, redness, along with symptoms such as visible blood vessels and itching.

Generally, redness or bloodshot eyes may be caused by physiological factors, or by pathological conditions such as bacterial conjunctivitis or allergic conjunctivitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

The bulbar conjunctiva contains numerous tiny blood vessels. After alcohol consumption, increased systemic circulation and greater blood volume, combined with the stimulating effects of alcohol, can lead to eye congestion and the appearance of red blood vessels. This condition typically does not require specific treatment and resolves once alcohol is fully metabolized in the body.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

When the conjunctiva becomes infected by bacteria, inflammatory stimulation causes capillaries in the conjunctival tissue to dilate and increases blood flow, resulting in a web-like pattern of red blood vessels. It is recommended to use antibacterial and anti-inflammatory eye drops such as gatifloxacin eye drops, levofloxacin eye drops, or norfloxacin eye drops locally under medical guidance to control symptoms.

2. Allergic Conjunctivitis

When the conjunctiva comes into contact with external allergens, it may trigger eye redness, congestion, and symptoms such as visible red blood vessels and itching. It is recommended to use medications such as naphazoline-pheniramine-magnesium trisilicate eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or sodium cromoglycate eye drops locally under medical supervision to manage the allergic response and alleviate symptoms.

In addition, acute glaucoma could also cause red eyes. If symptoms persist for a prolonged period and are accompanied by discomfort, prompt medical attention is necessary.

Related Articles

View All

Can dry eye syndrome cause redness or bloodshot eyes?

Whether dry eye syndrome causes redness and bloodshot eyes depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, redness is usually absent; however, when symptoms become noticeable or progress to a severe stage, redness may occur. To prevent worsening of dry eye syndrome and the appearance of redness, it is important to develop good eye-use habits in daily life, avoid prolonged continuous eye use, and take breaks by looking into the distance during work or study sessions.

View Full Answer

How to remove red blood vessels on the face

In general, facial redness or visible blood vessels may be caused by thinning of the skin's stratum corneum, environmental irritants, facial allergic dermatitis, rosacea, or hormone-dependent dermatitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. In daily life, maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, and follow a light diet.

View Full Answer

How to treat telangiectasia and broken capillaries

In general, dilated capillaries and visible blood vessels may be caused by long-term sun exposure, frequent temperature changes (hot and cold stimuli), severe damage to the skin barrier, hormonal fluctuations, rosacea, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatments and medication under a physician's guidance. Daily skincare should avoid frequent exfoliation and ensure thorough cleansing of the skin after wearing makeup.

View Full Answer

What are the warning signs of gastrointestinal bleeding?

In general, warning signs of gastrointestinal bleeding may include upper abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting, black or tarry stools, hematemesis (vomiting blood), dizziness, and fatigue. These symptoms are often associated with damage to the gastric mucosa or ruptured blood vessels. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to temporarily avoid eating spicy, hard, or irritating foods, and instead choose mild, easily digestible meals.

View Full Answer

What are the symptoms of capillary dilation?

In general, telangiectasia refers to abnormal dilation and thickening of small blood vessels on the surface of the skin or mucous membranes. Typical symptoms mainly include the appearance of thread-like or net-like red blood vessels on the skin, occurrence in specific areas, gradual worsening of symptoms over time, usually no obvious subjective discomfort, and exacerbation of symptoms after exposure to stimuli. After the appearance of telangiectasia symptoms, daily attention should be paid to proper skin protection.

View Full Answer

Can luffa remove broken capillaries?

The formation of red thread veins is often related to thinning of the skin's stratum corneum and dilation of capillaries, which requires professional aesthetic medical treatments or scientifically-based skincare to improve. Luffa contains vitamins and moisture, which may temporarily hydrate the skin and make it appear more radiant when applied topically. However, it cannot repair damaged stratum corneum or constrict dilated capillaries, thus it is unable to effectively eliminate red thread veins.

View Full Answer

Can rhinitis cause nosebleeds?

Rhinitis may or may not cause nosebleeds. Inflammation can make the nasal mucosa fragile, and actions such as blowing or rubbing the nose can easily damage the mucosa, leading to ruptured blood vessels. Nosebleeds are more likely to occur during episodes of allergic or infectious rhinitis. If the inflammation is mild and properly managed, or if the inflammation is promptly treated and controlled with reduced irritation, the integrity of the mucosa can be maintained, lowering the risk of bleeding. Proper nasal care and timely management of rhinitis are important in daily life.

View Full Answer

What causes red veins on the cheeks?

When experiencing intense emotions such as tension, shyness, or anger, the body secretes increased adrenaline, promoting blood vessel dilation. The capillaries in the cheek area react明显 (notably), resulting in visible redness or broken capillaries. At this time, one should learn to regulate emotions, relax the body through deep breathing, or shift attention; the redness typically gradually subsides. Sudden transition from a cold environment to a warm environment can also cause this phenomenon.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.