Bloodshot eye is the redness that occurs as a result of the dilation of the vessels located in the white part of the eye (sclera). Although it is often caused by simple eye fatigue, it can also result from different causes such as infection and high blood pressure. Treatment methods for bloodshot eye may include the use of artificial tear drops, moisturizing eye drops, allergy medications, or a change of contact lenses.
What Is Bloodshot Eye?
Bloodshot eye occurs as a result of dilation and blood pooling in the capillaries between the transparent layer on the eye surface and the white part. This may appear on the sclera as red lines or as a pink/red discoloration. Under normal conditions, the eye vessels are indistinct, but they can become prominent due to various factors.
Bloodshot eye may occur in both eyes or in only one eye; involvement of a single eye is considered more risky. This condition may sometimes be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, dryness, itching, and visual disturbances, and can be a sign of a serious health problem.
What Causes Bloodshot Eye?
The causes of bloodshot eye may be temporary or may indicate serious health problems that require treatment.
Fatigue:
It is one of the important factors that cause redness in the eyes. Excessive sleep is also among the causes of eye redness. Therefore, attention should be paid to sleep patterns. The amount of sleep needed, which varies from person to person, can be suggested as 9 to 11 hours for children, 8 to 10 hours for adolescents, and 7 to 9 hours for adults.
Prolonged Focusing and Screen Use:
Constantly focusing the eyes on a single point for a long time tires the eyes and can lead to congestion and redness. For this reason, when reading a book or looking at a digital screen, the eyes should be rested every 15–20 minutes.
Harmful Habits:
Alcohol and cigarette consumption are among the factors that increase redness and they may also adversely affect cardiovascular health. The vessels around the eye may dilate and become damaged, which can lead to bloodshot appearance.
Sunlight:
Direct exposure of the eyes to the sun may cause various health problems in addition to issues such as bloodshot eye.
Use of Chemical Products:
Contact of any chemically containing substance used in daily life with the eye causes redness. If an eye has come into contact with such a substance, it should be rinsed thoroughly with plenty of water and then a nearby healthcare facility should be consulted.
Allergy:
One of the causes of bloodshot eyes is allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic problems affect the eyes by causing constant itching and redness. These allergies, as with other allergies, are triggered by the body’s immune system.
Bloodshot Eye in Babies and Children
In babies, bloodshot eye may occur as a result of small vessels around the eye being exposed to pressure during birth. This situation can be frequently seen in births assisted by vacuum or forceps and may resolve on its own within a few days. In addition, blockage of the tear ducts in newborns may cause watering and redness of the eye.
A common cause of bloodshot eye in children is bacterial conjunctivitis. In preschool or school‑age children, inadequate hand hygiene can easily transfer germs to the eye. In such infections, intense discharge (crusting), itching, and watering accompany the redness in the eye. Allergic eye redness is also a common condition in children; exposure to pollen, dust, or pet dander can cause itching and redness.
Trauma or a foreign body in the eye can also cause sudden bloodshot eye in children and babies. During play, sand, dust, or small particles getting into the eye can irritate the vessels and lead to redness. If the child rubs the eye frequently, complains of pain, or has difficulty looking at light, an ophthalmologist should be consulted without delay.
Bloodshot eye in babies and children may be mild, but in some cases it can also be a sign of serious eye health problems. Therefore, if any of the symptoms below are present, medical evaluation is absolutely necessary:
-
Intense discharge and secretion
-
Swelling of the eyelids
-
Severe pain
-
Vision loss or blurriness
-
Extreme sensitivity to light
How Is Bloodshot Eye Treated?
The treatment method for bloodshot eye may vary depending on the underlying cause. In cases of bloodshot eye seen in newborn babies, eye drops may sometimes be used, while in some situations it can resolve on its own.
In problems caused by conjunctivitis, drops containing antibiotics may be used. To prevent the spread of such infections, hygiene rules must be strictly followed.
In redness problems resulting from allergic reactions, symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and stinging sensations may also occur. In such cases, not only eye drops but also systemic medication may be used.
Dry eye can also lead to redness. In this situation, the use of artificial tears and similar preparations under medical supervision may be recommended.
In some cases, bloodshot eye may heal spontaneously without any intervention. However, if the redness in the eye continues for more than 2 days, a specialist physician should definitely be consulted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bloodshot eye be a sign of high blood pressure?
Yes, a sudden increase in blood pressure can cause pressure in the eye vessels and lead to redness. If symptoms such as headache and nosebleed accompany this, emergency intervention may be required.
Is bloodshot eye dangerous in children?
Not every bloodshot eye is dangerous, but when it occurs due to microbial infections, traumas, or intraocular inflammations, it may cause permanent damage if left untreated. If there is discharge, swelling, and visual disturbance, a doctor must definitely evaluate the child.
Which eye drops are used for bloodshot eye?
Treatment with eye drops is planned after determining the cause. Antihistamine drops may be preferred in allergic conditions, and antibiotic drops in infections. Using eye drops without consulting a doctor is not recommended and may be harmful.
How many days does bloodshot eye take to heal?
In simple eye fatigue, it may improve within a few days. Infections may respond to treatment within 1 week. Vascular rupture (subconjunctival hemorrhage) may take 2–3 weeks.
