Bloodshot Eyes: Natural Tips To Get Rid

Bloodshot eyes, or red eye, is a condition in which tiny blood vessels on the surface of the eye become swollen or widened. It is a symptom of many eye diseases and irritations, not itself a disease. The sclera is the white, outer layer of the eye. It is covered by a thin, clear membrane called the conjunctiva, which contains tiny blood vessels. When these vessels widen, the eye looks red or bloodshot.

This is a very common eye issue.

Often it goes away on its own without medical treatment. Sometimes, though, it signals a problem that needs care. Bloodshot eyes are usually not serious, but see a clinician if redness comes with eye pain, vision changes, light sensitivity (photophobia), discharge or a severe headache.

Bloodshot eyes

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In some cases, red eye has no symptoms other than the redness. It can be caused by dryness, tiredness, irritation, or wearing contact lenses too long, which reduces the oxygen reaching the cornea. In simple words, when the white of the eye looks red, that is a bloodshot eye.

Causes Of Bloodshot Eyes

Lots of factors around us can cause red eye. The redness comes from widening of the tiny blood vessels that run through the conjunctiva, the clear layer over the sclera. Normally these vessels are barely visible, but allergens, irritants or eye problems make them swell. Some causes are environmental and some are due to eye diseases. Most common Bloodshot causes of the redeye include

Allergen dust, fumes, pollen’s, etc exposure
Bacterial infections
Viral infections
Fungal infection
Keratitis
Wearing of contact lens for a long time, or improper handling of lenses
Smoking
Chemical exposure
Overexposure to UV sun rays
Eye infections of any time
Uveitis
Corneal ulcer
Persistent use of digital devices overnight
Insufficient sleep
Excessive use of eye drops

Natural Tips To Get Rid Of Bloodshot Eyes

1- Wash Eyelids Daily

Gently wash your face and eyelids each day with lukewarm water to remove dirt, makeup and pollution. A cool, damp cloth over closed eyes can also soothe red, irritated eyes.

2- Wear Sun Glasses

Whenever you are outside for long hours, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from ultraviolet sun radiation as well as pollution and dust. They also help if bright light bothers your eyes.

3- Proper Handling Of Contact Lenses

Your contact lenses are for you only. Don't share them with friends or even siblings. Clean and store your lenses only in fresh contact lens solution, never water, as the CDC advises. Wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, and avoid sleeping in them unless your eye care provider says it is okay. Your eye hygiene is very important for your eye health.

4- Try over-the-counter eyedrops and eyewashes.

Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) are a gentle first choice for dry, irritated eyes. Redness-relief drops contain decongestants that shrink the blood vessels, while eyewashes usually contain sterile saline. Both may reduce redness for a short time.

Overusing redness-relief drops can cause rebound redness, so use them only occasionally and follow the label. If redness keeps coming back, see an eye care provider.

5- Rest your eyes and sleep well

Getting enough sleep and taking breaks from screens can ease tired, red eyes. According to MedlinePlus, if redness is due to fatigue or eye strain, resting your eyes is usually all you need.

WHAT DOES BLOODSHOT MEAN?

Bloodshot eyes or red eyes are not a disease but a symptom of other eye problems like conjunctivitis, keratitis or glaucoma. Red eye can be caused by allergens, pollen, dust, eye fatigue, common eye infections or overwearing contact lenses. It is usually mild but can signal a serious eye condition. Contact a clinician if your eyes stay red for longer than 1 to 2 days, or if you have eye pain or vision changes.

HP Thoughts: You might be experiencing swollen eyes instead of bloodshot eyes. If it is the former, then proceed to our post to know some easy remedies: Best Home Remedies Of Swollen Eyes.