Health

Red eyes: what could be the cause

This article discusses the various causes of red eyes, including allergies, dry eyes, injuries, infections, contact lenses, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, uveitis, blepharitis, and scleritis by lelandhiggins
Estimated reading time: 2 min 25 sec
Red eyes: what could be the cause Photo by Elīna Arāja on Pexels

Red eyes, also known as bloodshot eyes, is a common eye problem that affects people of all ages.

It is caused by the enlargement of the blood vessels in the white of the eye (sclera) and can indicate an underlying medical condition or be a sign of eye fatigue or irritation. In this article, we will discuss the various causes of red eyes.

1. Allergies

Allergies can cause redness in the eyes by releasing histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation and dilation of blood vessels. Allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander can lead to itchy, red, and watery eyes.

2. Dry eyes

Dry eyes can cause redness and irritation due to a lack of adequate lubrication in the eye. This can be caused by several factors, such as aging, hormonal changes, medication side effects, or environmental factors.

3. Injuries

Eye injuries can cause the blood vessels in the eye to rupture, leading to redness and pain. Injuries can range from minor scratches on the surface of the eye to more severe trauma that can damage the eye and require medical attention.

4. Infections

Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can cause redness, swelling, and discharge from the eye. Bacterial and viral infections can both cause red eyes.

5. Contact lens wear

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can cause eye redness and irritation. This is due to a lack of oxygen getting to the eyes and an accumulation of debris on the lenses, which can cause inflammation and irritation of the eyes.

6. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that can cause increased pressure within the eye, leading to vision loss and redness of the eyes. This condition is typically asymptomatic in the early stages, which is why regular eye examinations are crucial.

Related Article Eye redness: possible reasons Eye redness: possible reasons

7. Corneal ulcers

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the surface of the cornea that can cause pain, redness, and irritation in the eye. This condition can be caused by an infection or injury and requires prompt medical treatment to prevent complications.

8. Uveitis

Uveitis is the inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains many of the blood vessels that nourish the eye. This can cause eye redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.

9. Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid that can cause redness, itching, and flaking. This condition can be caused by bacteria, allergies, or a blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid.

10. Scleritis

Scleritis is a serious condition that causes inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye, and can cause eye redness, pain, and vision loss.

This condition is typically associated with underlying autoimmune disorders and requires prompt medical attention.

Conclusion

Red eyes can be caused by a wide range of factors, including allergies, infections, injuries, and underlying medical conditions.

If you experience red eyes, it’s crucial to consult with an eye doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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