What causes eye redness after drinking alcohol?

Sep 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Redness of the eyes after drinking alcohol may be caused by factors such as blood vessel dilation, excessive alcohol consumption, keratitis, alcohol poisoning, or iridocyclitis. To prevent eye redness after drinking, it is important to consume alcohol in moderation, maintain good eye hygiene, avoid exposure to infection sources, and promptly rest the eyes if discomfort occurs. Avoid rubbing the eyes with hands to prevent worsening of symptoms.

Generally speaking, eye redness after drinking alcohol may be caused by factors such as blood vessel dilation, excessive alcohol consumption, keratitis, alcohol poisoning, or iridocyclitis. Physical and medical treatments should be conducted under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Blood Vessel Dilation

Alcohol has a vasodilatory effect; after drinking, the blood vessels in the eyes may dilate and increase blood flow, leading to eye redness. This dilation is usually a direct result of alcohol and typically does not require specific medication. Applying a cold compress to the eyes can help constrict blood vessels and reduce redness.

2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol. Drinking too much can cause ocular blood vessel dilation and increased blood flow, resulting in eye redness. Under medical supervision, treatments may include oral rehydration salts (Type I), glucose and sodium chloride injection, or sodium chloride injection.

3. Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, often caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Alcohol may exacerbate the inflammatory response, leading to blood vessel dilation and eye redness. Symptoms may also include eye pain and redness. Under a physician’s direction, treatment may involve using gatifloxacin eye drops, acyclovir eye drops, or lomefloxacin hydrochloride eye drops.

4. Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol poisoning occurs when excessive drinking leads to high blood alcohol levels, impairing central nervous system function and causing various symptoms. It may lead to swelling in ocular tissues, resulting in eye redness, along with symptoms such as confusion, nausea, and vomiting. Follow a doctor’s advice for treatment with medications such as naloxone hydrochloride injection, vitamin B1 injection, and vitamin B6 injection.

5. Iridocyclitis

Iridocyclitis is inflammation of the iris and ciliary body, which can be triggered by autoimmune diseases, trauma, or other factors. Alcohol may irritate the iris and ciliary body, worsening inflammation and causing eye redness, along with symptoms like photophobia and tearing. Treatment should follow medical instructions and may include compound tropicamide eye drops, prednisolone acetate tablets, or fluorometholone eye drops.

In daily life, it is important to drink alcohol in moderation and avoid excessive intake. Maintain good eye hygiene. If eye discomfort occurs, rest promptly and avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent worsening symptoms.

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