What causes bloodshot eyes?
May 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, bloodshot eyes may be caused by prolonged eye use, staying up late, conjunctivitis, scleritis, or dry eye syndrome. It is important to avoid extended periods of eye strain, maintain a regular sleep schedule, practice good eye hygiene, minimize exposure to substances that may cause allergies or irritation, and take regular breaks from electronic screens to relieve eye fatigue.
Under normal circumstances, bloodshot eyes may be caused by prolonged eye use, staying up late, dry eye syndrome, scleritis, or conjunctivitis. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Prolonged Eye Use
Staring at electronic screens, books, or similar objects for extended periods can lead to eye fatigue and poor blood circulation, resulting in ocular congestion and visible blood vessels in the eyes. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as dryness, pain, and blurred vision. Applying a warm towel or using a heated eye mask for 15 minutes per session can help improve blood circulation.
2. Staying Up Late
Irregular sleep patterns and insufficient sleep can cause eye fatigue and disrupt metabolism, leading to ocular congestion and redness in the eyes. This may also present with dark circles and worsening of under-eye bags. It is important in daily life to ensure adequate sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
3. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs when there is insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, causing eye dryness, which in turn leads to ocular congestion and redness. Symptoms may include dryness, discomfort, pain, and a foreign body sensation. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include sodium hyaluronate eye drops, polyvinyl alcohol eye drops, or erythromycin eye ointment.
4. Scleritis
Scleritis is an inflammation of the scleral tissue, often caused by infections or autoimmune diseases, leading to ocular congestion and visible blood vessels. It is typically accompanied by eye pain and decreased vision. Treatment should follow medical guidance and may involve pranoprofen eye drops, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or fluorometholone eye drops.
5. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctival tissue caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or other factors, resulting in ocular congestion and redness. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, tearing, and increased eye discharge. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include tobramycin eye drops, levofloxacin hydrochloride eye drops, or acyclovir eye drops.
To maintain eye health and prevent bloodshot eyes, it is important to avoid prolonged eye strain, maintain regular sleep habits, practice good eye hygiene, minimize exposure to allergens or irritants, and take regular breaks from electronic screens to relieve eye fatigue.
