What causes red blood vessels in the eyes?

Under normal circumstances, red blood vessels in the eyes may be caused by eye strain, environmental irritation, conjunctivitis, scleritis, or iridocyclitis. When discomfort occurs, timely treatment is recommended. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Eye strain

Prolonged focus on electronic screens, reading, or work can lead to eye fatigue, poor blood circulation, and local hypoxia, causing capillary dilation and resulting in red blood vessels in the eyes. Symptoms such as dryness and blurred vision may also occur. It's important to rest regularly—take a 5-minute break after every 40 minutes of visual work, preferably by looking into the distance to relieve eye discomfort.

2. Environmental irritation

Environmental factors such as smoke, dust, and dry air can irritate the eyes, leading to dryness and discomfort, which may result in red blood vessels. The eyes may also experience pain and light sensitivity. Avoid prolonged exposure to dry environments, and wear protective eyewear when outdoors.

3. Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by bacterial, viral, or allergic triggers leads to blood vessel dilation and increased blood flow, resulting in red eyes. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, and pain. Treatment may include antihistamine eye drops such as emedastine difumarate ophthalmic solution, olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution, or pemirolast potassium ophthalmic solution, as directed by a physician.

4. Scleritis

Scleritis may be associated with various systemic infections, autoimmune diseases, or metabolic disorders. Inflammation causes dilation and congestion of scleral blood vessels, leading to redness in the eyes, often accompanied by swelling and pain. Treatment under medical supervision may include tobramycin and dexamethasone ophthalmic solution, pranoprofen ophthalmic solution, or levofloxacin ophthalmic solution.

5. Iridocyclitis

Inflammation of the iris and ciliary body caused by infection or autoimmune conditions results in congestion of these tissues, causing red blood vessels in the eye. Common symptoms include eye pain and photophobia. Treatment as prescribed may include compound tropicamide eye drops, prednisolone acetate tablets, or fluorometholone ophthalmic solution.

To maintain eye health, avoid eye strain, minimize exposure to irritants like smoke and dust, maintain good eye hygiene, and prevent infections.