What Causes Red Eyes After Taking a Shower?

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, red eyes after bathing may be caused by factors such as excessively hot water temperature, irritation from bathing products, allergic reactions, bacterial or viral infections, or pre-existing eye conditions. Management should be based on the specific situation. If redness persists after bathing and does not improve following appropriate measures, prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying treatment.

Generally, red eyes after bathing may be caused by high water temperature, irritation from bath products, allergic reactions, bacterial or viral infections, or pre-existing eye conditions, and different situations require different treatments.

1. High water temperature: Excessively hot water during bathing may cause dilation of blood vessels around the eyes, resulting in eye redness and congestion. This usually resolves on its own within a short time. It is recommended to close the eyes and rest for a while to allow the blood vessels around the eyes to gradually return to their normal state.

2. Irritation from bath products: During bathing, shampoo, shower gel, or other bath products may accidentally enter the eyes and irritate them, causing conjunctival congestion and redness. It is recommended to immediately rinse the eyes thoroughly with large amounts of clean water to remove the products.

3. Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to certain bath products, towel materials, or substances in the water used during bathing. Contact with these allergens may trigger an allergic reaction causing red eyes. It is recommended to avoid contact with the allergen again, regularly replace bath products, and, if the allergy is severe, use medications such as sodium cromoglicate eye drops or olopatadine hydrochloride eye drops as directed by a physician.

4. Bacterial or viral infection: Rubbing the eyes with unclean objects during bathing may introduce bacteria or viruses into the eyes, leading to infection and redness. It is recommended to use medications such as levofloxacin eye drops or erythromycin eye ointment under the guidance of a physician.

5. Pre-existing eye conditions: Individuals with pre-existing eye conditions such as glaucoma or iritis may experience worsening of their condition due to changes in environmental temperature and humidity, as well as stimulation from water flow during bathing, resulting in red eyes. Prompt medical attention is advised when red eyes occur, and the physician will provide targeted treatment and adjust medications based on the specific condition.

If red eyes persist after bathing and do not improve despite taking appropriate measures, prompt medical consultation is recommended to avoid delays in treatment.

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