We all know the feeling of having red eyes – those days when your eyes resemble ‘stop signs’ giving away your fatigue and leaving you self-conscious.
It’s as if the world can see right through you, focusing solely on those bloodshot eyes.
From long hours spent in front of screens to restless nights caring for loved ones or simply battling the seasonal elements, it’s no wonder our eyes rebel and turn red.
So, what to do for red eyes? And most importantly, why do those eyes turn red and bloodshot? We will explore causes and remedies for red eyes in this article.
Table of Contents
Red Eyes Cause – Which Habits Get You into This Mess?
Red eyes can become a nuisance, affecting your appearance and overall well-being.
By understanding the habits and factors that lead to red eyes, you can also understand how to prevent and combat this problem, restoring clarity and vitality to your eyes.
Sleep Deprivation
When you burn the midnight oil, sacrificing precious sleep, your eyes pay the price.
Research suggests that lack of sleep can cause blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, leading to redness and puffiness.
Prioritizing quality sleep and adopting a consistent sleep schedule can work wonders in keeping your eyes bright and rejuvenated.
Red Eyes Due to Allergies
Seasonal allergies can wreak havoc on your eyes, triggering inflammation and redness. Common causes include pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
Eye Strain from Screens
In today’s digital age, excessive screen time has become a norm. Staring at screens for prolonged periods can strain the eyes, causing redness and dryness. Moreover, it can give you headaches.
Suggested Read: If you are addicted to screens, read about Digital Minimalism and ways to take a digital detox.
Dryness
Insufficient tear production or exposure to dry environments can result in dry eyes, leading to redness and irritation.
Factors like air conditioning, heating, or windy conditions can also exacerbate the problem.
Red eyes Due to Contact Lens
Contact lenses, while convenient, can sometimes cause redness and discomfort.
Improper hygiene, overuse, or wearing lenses beyond the recommended time can lead to eye irritation. Ensure you follow proper lens care practices and replace them as instructed to maintain eye health.
Eye Infections
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection characterized by redness, itching, and discharge. Bacterial or viral infections, as well as allergies, can cause this condition.
It is crucial to seek medical attention and practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection.
Environmental Irritants
Exposure to smoke, pollutants, or chemicals can irritate the eyes, resulting in redness.
Protect your eyes by wearing goggles or sunglasses in hazardous environments and avoiding smoke-filled areas whenever possible.
Alcohol and Cigarette Smoke
Excessive alcohol consumption and exposure to cigarette smoke can cause bloodshot eyes. Alcohol can also dilate blood vessels, while smoke irritates and inflames the eyes.
Remember! Understanding the causes behind red eyes is the first step toward prevention and effective treatment.
Relief for Red Eyes – Lifestyle Strategies and Home Remedies!
Whether caused by fatigue, allergies, or long hours staring at screens, finding effective remedies to combat red eyes is essential for maintaining healthy, sparkling eyes.
Let’s explore a range of practical and natural tips to help you soothe and refresh your eyes, leaving them looking vibrant and revitalized.
The Power of Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices aren’t just for fancy spa treatments! They can work wonders for red, tired eyes too.
Cucumbers have hydrating properties and contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Simply place chilled cucumber slices over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.
The coolness will refresh your eyes, while the natural compounds work like magic to reduce redness.
Tea Bag Compresses
Tea bags are delightful for a warm cup of tea. However, they can also provide relief for red eyes.
Steep two tea bags (chamomile or green tea work best) in hot water for a few minutes, then remove and let them cool. Place the cooled tea bags over your eyes for 15 minutes.
The anti-inflammatory properties of tea will help reduce redness and puffiness.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
One of the most common causes of red eyes is dehydration.
Drink ample water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated. That’s because staying hydrated can prevent dryness and soothe irritated eyes.
Suggested Read: How Detox Water Benefits You with a Refreshing Body Cleanse?
The 20-20-20 Rule
If you spend long hours in front of a computer or mobile screen, STOP!
Screen time can strain your eyes and make them bloodshot.
Combat this by following the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
This practice helps reduce eye strain. Moreover, it gives your eyes a chance to relax and rejuvenate.
Artificial Tears for Instant Relief
Artificial tears, available over-the-counter, can provide quick relief for red eyes caused by dryness or irritation. These eye drops also help lubricate your eyes and reduce inflammation.
Ensure you choose preservative-free drops for the best results. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult an eye care professional. You can reach out to Dr. Muhammad Hammad Ayub, a leading Ophthalmologist in Lahore with 31 years of expertise.
On a side note: Arrange a daily crying session with yourself. It helps relieve mental exhaustion and will soothe your red eyes.
Adjust Your Environment
The environment you’re in can contribute to red eyes.
If you are exposed to allergens such as dust or pollen, consider using an air purifier or keeping windows closed during peak allergy seasons.
Additionally, adjust the brightness and contrast settings on your screens. It can help reduce eye strain and minimize redness.
Blink Regularly
When engrossed in a task, such as reading or working on a computer, you tend to blink less frequently, leading to dry and red eyes.
Make a conscious effort to blink more often to keep your eyes moisturized naturally. You can even set a reminder on your mobile phone to blink every few minutes until it becomes a habit.
Cold Compresses for Immediate Relief
For immediate relief from red eyes, a cold compress can work wonders.
Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and gently place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes. The cold temperature will help constrict blood vessels, reducing redness and puffiness.
Final Thoughts from Healthwire!
By adopting healthy habits, prioritizing self-care, and seeking medical advice from a qualified Ophthalmologist when necessary, you can bid farewell to bloodshot and red eyes and greet each day with a clear-eyed gaze.
Your eyes deserve the care and attention that will leave them refreshed and soothed.
