What are the causes of eye redness?

Apr 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, causes of eye redness include eye strain, long-term use of eye drops, keratitis, scleritis, and acute glaucoma. When any of these conditions occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment. In daily life, consuming foods rich in nutrients such as vitamin A and vitamin C—such as eggs, spinach, and carrots—can help maintain eye health.

Under normal circumstances, causes of eye redness include eye strain, long-term use of eye drops, keratitis, scleritis, and acute glaucoma. When any of these conditions occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Eye strain: Prolonged use of the eyes can lead to fatigue and dryness. When the surface of the eye is irritated, ocular blood vessels may dilate to increase blood flow and nutrient supply. This dilation caused by excessive eye use results in a congested appearance. It is advisable to rest the eyes appropriately and look into the distance periodically.

2. Long-term use of eye drops: Continuous use of eye drops may cause their chemical components to irritate ocular tissues, leading to vascular dilation and resulting in eye redness. Eye drops should be used according to a doctor's instructions, and unnecessary prolonged use should be avoided.

3. Keratitis: Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms. When the cornea is irritated or infected, surrounding blood vessels may dilate to deliver white blood cells and other immune cells to combat the inflammation, causing eye redness. Treatment may include medications such as fluconazole eye drops, methylprednisolone tablets, or tobramycin eye drops, as directed by a physician.

4. Scleritis: Scleritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the sclera itself, which causes dilation of blood vessels around the sclera to enhance the transport of immune cells, potentially leading to eye redness. Treatment under medical guidance may involve erythromycin eye ointment, dexamethasone acetate tablets, or levofloxacin eye drops to alleviate symptoms.

5. Acute glaucoma: Acute glaucoma is an eye condition caused by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. Elevated pressure obstructs the flow of aqueous humor, leading to dilation and congestion of ocular blood vessels. Medications such as mannitol injection, carteolol hydrochloride eye drops, or betaxolol hydrochloride eye drops may be used under medical supervision to relieve discomfort.

In daily life, consuming foods rich in nutrients such as vitamin A and vitamin C—including eggs, spinach, and carrots—in a balanced manner can support eye health.

Related Articles

View All