Bloodshot Eyes after Shower: Symptoms & Causes

Red eye is a symptom of many eye diseases and everyday irritations, not a disease itself. Bloodshot eyes after a shower are common and usually harmless. Before discussing bloodshot eyes after a shower, it helps to know how eyes become red.

How Bloodshot Eyes Are Formed?

The white of the eye is covered by a thin, clear membrane called the conjunctiva, which contains tiny blood vessels. When something irritates the eye, such as soap, dust, pollen, bacteria or viruses, these vessels widen (dilate) and become visible. MedlinePlus explains that eye redness happens when the small blood vessels on the eye's surface swell or dilate.

If the cause is more serious, the redness can come with pain, eye strain, discharge, light sensitivity or blurred vision. Sometimes bloodshot eyes also appear with too little sleep, overuse of contact lenses, dry eyes or too much sun exposure. Wearing contact lenses too long can reduce the oxygen reaching the cornea, which can also make eyes red.

Symptoms of Bloodshot Eyes

The bloodshot eye is a symptom which sometimes may be associated with other symptoms such as

Irritation
Burning sensation
Pain in eye
Eyestrain
Photosensitivity
Eye discomfort
Discharge from eye
Greasy eyelashes
Gritty sensation in the eye
Blurring of vision

Bloodshot Eyes after Shower Causes

Many people wonder what causes bloodshot eyes after a shower. How does it happen without exposure to bacteria or dust? The most common reasons are:

Shampoo, soap and body wash: These products often run into the eyes and can cause stinging, irritation and redness.
Rubbing your eyes: Rubbing with a towel or your hands irritates the eye surface.
Water quality: Chlorine or other disinfectants and minerals in tap water can irritate sensitive eyes.
Contact lenses: Water can carry germs. The CDC advises removing your contact lenses before showering or swimming.

Bloodshot Eyes with Hot Water Bath

Bathing with hot water is quite common, especially during winter. Hot showers and steam can dry out or irritate the eyes, adding to redness.

Hot water also widens blood vessels in the skin, which can lower blood pressure briefly and make some people feel lightheaded. If you feel dizzy in the shower, sit down and switch to cooler water.

How to Get Rid Of Bloodshot Eyes with Home Tips?

Redness from a shower usually fades on its own within a few hours. Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) can ease irritation. Redness-relief drops can cause rebound redness if overused, so use them only occasionally. Simple home tips can also help rid of bloodshot eyes. They include

Cold Compresses

A cool compress is a traditional remedy that soothes the eyes. Soak a clean cloth in cool water and place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes. It can help ease redness and swelling.

Wash Eyelids

Keep your eye hygiene good. Gently wash your eyelids and the skin around your eyes, and rinse your eyes with clean water if shampoo or soap gets in. Keep your eyes closed while rinsing your hair.

Switched Contacts

Dirty or overworn contact lenses are a common cause of eye infections and redness. Replace your lenses on schedule and use fresh solution for storage, never water.

Wear Goggles

Sunlight contains harmful ultraviolet rays that can affect your eyes. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from sunlight and dust.

When to see a doctor

Contact a clinician if your eyes stay red for longer than 1 to 2 days, or if redness comes with eye pain, vision changes, strong light sensitivity, or yellow or green discharge.

Why Do My Eyes Turn Red When I Shower?

Red eyes after a shower are usually caused by shampoo, soap or other products getting into the eyes, by rubbing them, or by chlorine or other chemicals in the water. The redness typically fades within a few hours. See a doctor if it lasts more than 1 to 2 days or comes with pain or vision changes.