What causes red, swollen, and watery eyes?

Apr 19, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

Eye redness, swelling, and tearing may be related to physiological factors such as eye strain, or could result from pathological conditions like conjunctivitis or scleritis. After onset, maintain good eye hygiene and consult a doctor for appropriate medication. Besides the aforementioned causes, acute glaucoma could also be responsible. It is advisable to get adequate rest, have regular follow-up examinations at the hospital, and monitor the recovery of your eyes.

Generally, eye redness and tearing are related to physiological factors such as eye strain from overuse, but they may also be caused by pathological conditions such as conjunctivitis or scleritis. After onset, it is important to maintain good eye hygiene and consult a doctor for appropriate medical treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

Prolonged熬夜 (staying up late) and overwork can lead to excessive eye fatigue. This may impair the tear glands' ability to adequately flush the cornea, resulting in corneal irritation and symptoms such as dryness, redness, swelling, and tearing. These are normal physiological responses that do not require special treatment. It is recommended to practice proper eye usage and strengthen daily eye care.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Conjunctivitis
When the conjunctiva is infected by microorganisms or subjected to physical irritation, small blood vessels within the conjunctiva dilate, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching. Based on the patient's condition, doctors may prescribe medications such as valganciclovir hydrochloride tablets, chloramphenicol tablets, or gentamicin sulfate tablets to help control disease progression.

2) Scleritis
Scleritis occurs when trauma or infection spreads from surrounding ocular tissues, causing inflammation of the sclera. This results in congestion near the sclera, persistent pain, and tearing. After diagnosis, follow medical advice to use ophthalmic solutions such as phtobutane eye drops, lincomycin hydrochloride eye drops, or compound neomycin sulfate eye drops. Maintain good eye hygiene during treatment.

In addition to the above causes, acute glaucoma could also be responsible. It is advisable to get adequate rest, schedule regular follow-up visits at the hospital, and monitor the recovery of the eyes.

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