What causes red bloodshot eyes frequently?
May 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Redness in the eyes is often caused by eye strain, foreign body irritation, bacterial conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, or iridocyclitis. To prevent this, avoid prolonged use of electronic devices or reading, maintain good eye hygiene, and use lubricating eye drops when necessary. These measures can effectively reduce eye fatigue and help prevent the appearance of red blood vessels in the eyes.
Generally, frequent redness in the eyes may be caused by eye strain, foreign body irritation, bacterial conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, or iridocyclitis. If you experience any physical discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Eye Strain
Prolonged focus on electronic devices such as computers and smartphones, or extended reading, can keep the eyes in a state of tension for long periods. This may lead to dilation of ocular blood vessels, resulting in persistent redness in the eyes, often accompanied by symptoms such as dryness, soreness, and discomfort. Applying a warm towel or eye mask to the eyes for 10–15 minutes, two to three times daily, can help relieve these symptoms.
2. Foreign Body Irritation
When foreign objects such as dust, eyelashes, or small insects enter the eye, they can irritate ocular tissues, causing eye redness and bloodshot appearance, along with symptoms like tearing and light sensitivity. The eye can be rinsed with clean water or saline solution to remove the foreign object.
3. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by bacterial infection, leading to conjunctival congestion and persistent redness in the eyes. It may also cause itching, eyelid swelling, and discharge. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include prescription eye drops such as Emedastine difumarate ophthalmic solution, Olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution, or Pemirolast potassium ophthalmic solution.
4. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye occurs due to insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, leading to dryness and subsequent eye redness. Common symptoms include dryness, a sensation of a foreign body in the eye, and burning. Treatment under medical supervision may involve using sodium hyaluronate eye drops, fluorometholone eye drops, or vitamin A palmitate ophthalmic gel.
5. Iridocyclitis
This refers to inflammation of the iris and ciliary body, possibly related to infections or immune factors. It causes ocular congestion, resulting in persistent redness, along with symptoms such as eye pain and photophobia. Treatment should follow medical guidance and may include medications such as compound tropicamide eye drops, prednisolone acetate tablets, or tobramycin-dexamethasone eye drops.
In daily life, it's important to maintain good eye habits, practice proper eye hygiene, and use eye drops or artificial tears appropriately to keep the eyes moist and healthy.
