Red eyes refer to a condition where the white part of the eye becomes pink or red when the blood vessels on the surface of the eye expand or dilate.

This condition may occur due to various reasons, including dust, allergies, infections, or underlying health issues.

1. Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis or pink eye is a common condition that causes the inflammation of the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.

This condition may occur due to bacterial or viral infections, or exposure to allergies or irritants such as dust, smoke, or pollution.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the eye moist and lubricated. This condition may arise due to aging, hormonal changes, or exposure to air conditioning, heating system, and wind.

3. Foreign Bodies in the Eye

Foreign bodies such as dust. Sand, or other particles may get trapped in the eye, causing irritation and inflammation of the eyes. This condition may also occur if chemical substances come in contact with the eye.

4. Keratitis

Keratitis is a condition that causes the inflammation of the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. This condition may occur due to infections, injuries, or underlying health conditions that weaken the immune system.

5. Iritis

Iritis is a condition that affects the iris, the colored part of the eye between the cornea and the lens.

This condition may occur due to infections, systemic diseases such as lupus or Hodgkin’s disease, or underlying health conditions that weaken the immune system.

6. Uveitis

Uveitis is a condition that affects the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that supplies blood to the retina.

This condition may occur due to infections, inflammatory disorders, or underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

7. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, which carries visual signals from the eye to the brain. This condition may occur due to high pressure in the eye, which may result from underlying health conditions or aging.

8. Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Subconjunctival hemorrhage refers to a condition that occurs when a blood vessel breaks under the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye.

This condition may occur due to injury, hypertension, or underlying health conditions that affect blood clotting.

9. Scleritis

Scleritis is a condition that affects the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye. This condition may occur due to infections, inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, or underlying health conditions that weaken the immune system.

Wearing contact lenses for a long time may cause red eyes due to various reasons such as infection, inflammation, or oxygen deprivation.

11. Allergic Reaction

Allergies may cause red eyes due to the release of histamines in the body that triggers inflammation and irritation in the eyes. Allergies may arise due to seasonal changes, dust, molds, pet dander, or other environmental triggers.

12. Corneal Ulcer

Corneal ulcer is a condition that causes the formation of an open sore on the cornea, which may occur due to infections, trauma, contact lenses, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

Conclusion

Red eyes may indicate a range of underlying health conditions, including conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, foreign bodies in the eye, keratitis, iritis, uveitis, glaucoma, subconjunctival hemorrhage, scleritis, contact lens-related red eye, allergic reaction, or corneal ulcer. If you experience persistent red eyes or other vision problems, seek medical attention immediately.