Eye redness is the reddening that occurs due to the dilation of the blood vessels located in the white part (sclera) of the eye. While it often stems from simple eye fatigue, it can also be caused by other factors such as infections and hypertension. Treatment methods for eye redness can include the use of artificial tear drops, moisturizing eye drops, allergy medications, or a change of contact lenses.
What is Eye Redness?
Eye redness occurs as a result of the dilation of capillaries between the transparent layer and the white part of the eye surface and the accumulation of blood. This can be seen as red lines or pink/red discoloration on the sclera. Under normal conditions, the eye vessels, which are indistinct, may become apparent due to various factors.
Eye redness can occur in both eyes or in one eye; having it in one eye is riskier. Additionally, this condition can sometimes be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, dryness, itching, and vision disorders, and may be an indicator of a serious health issue.
Why Does Eye Redness Occur?
The causes of eye redness can be temporary or may indicate serious health problems that require treatment.
Fatigue:
It is one of the significant factors causing redness in the eyes. Oversleeping is also among the causes of eye redness. Therefore, sleep patterns should be monitored. The need for sleep varies from person to person but can be suggested as 9 to 11 hours for children, 8 to 10 hours for teenagers, and 7 to 9 hours for adults.
Prolonged Focus and Screen Use:
Constantly focusing on a single point for extended periods can tire the eyes and cause redness. Therefore, while reading or looking at a digital screen, eyes should be rested every 15-20 minutes.
Harmful Habits:
Consumption of alcohol and smoking are among the factors that increase redness and these habits can also negatively impact cardiovascular health. The blood vessels around the eyes can become dilated and damaged, leading to redness.
Sunlight:
Direct exposure of the eyes to sunlight can cause various health problems in addition to issues like eye redness.
Use of Chemical Products:
Contact of the eyes with any chemical-containing substance used in daily life can cause redness. If the eye comes into contact with such a substance, it should be rinsed abundantly with water and then the nearest healthcare facility should be consulted.
Allergy:
Another cause of redness in the eyes is allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic issues affect the eyes by causing constant itching and redness. These allergies are triggered by the body's immune system similar to other allergies.
Eye Redness in Infants and Children
Eye redness in infants can occur due to the pressure exerted on the small vessels around the eyes during childbirth. This can be commonly observed in births assisted with vacuum or forceps and may resolve itself within a few days. Apart from this, tear duct blockages in newborns can cause watering and redness in the eyes.
In children, a common cause of eye redness is bacterial conjunctivitis. Due to the lack of attention to hand hygiene among preschool or school-aged children, germs can easily be transmitted to the eyes. Such infections are typically accompanied by intense discharge, itching, and watering of the eye. Allergic eye redness is also commonly seen in children; exposure to pollen, dust, or pet hair can cause itching and redness.
Trauma or the intrusion of a foreign object into the eye can also lead to sudden eye redness in children and infants. During play, sand, dust, or small particles entering the eye can irritate the vessels and cause redness. If the child rubs their eye frequently, complains of pain, or struggles to look at the light, a visit to an eye specialist should not be delayed.
While eye redness in infants and children can be mild, in some cases, it may also indicate serious eye health problems. Therefore, if any of the following symptoms are present, a medical evaluation is necessary:
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Intense discharge and flow
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Swelling of the eyelids
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Severe pain
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Vision loss or blurriness
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Excessive sensitivity to light
How Is Eye Redness Treated?
The method of treating eye redness may vary depending on the cause of the condition. In cases of eye redness seen in newborns, sometimes drop therapy can be applied, while in some cases it may resolve on its own.
In issues caused by conjunctivitis, antibiotic drops may be used. To prevent the contagiousness of such diseases, adherence to hygiene rules is crucial.
In problems caused by allergic reactions, symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and stinging may also occur. In such cases, not only drops but also medication treatments can be applied.
Dry eyes can also cause redness. In such cases, the use of tear drops and similar preparations under the control of a doctor is recommended.
In some cases, eye redness may resolve itself without any intervention. However, if the redness in the eye persists for more than 2 days, a specialist in the field should be consulted without fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can eye redness be a sign of hypertension?
Yes, sudden increases in blood pressure can cause pressure in the eye vessels leading to redness. Especially if accompanied by symptoms like headache and nosebleed, urgent intervention might be necessary.
Is eye redness in children dangerous?
Not all eye redness is dangerous; however, if caused by microbial infections, trauma, or intraocular inflammations, untreated, it can result in permanent damage. If discharge, swelling, and vision impairment occur, a doctor should evaluate it.
What drops are used for eye redness?
Treatment is planned based on the cause. Antihistamine drops may be preferred in allergic conditions, while antibiotic drops are used for infections. Using drops without consulting a doctor is inadvisable.
How many days does it take for eye redness to resolve?
Simple eye fatigue can resolve within a few days. Infections may respond to treatment within 1 week. Blood vessel rupture might take 2–3 weeks.