Definition and Overview

Eye redness, also known as bloodshot eyes or red eyes, occurs when the small blood vessels on the surface of the eye (sclera) become enlarged and dilated. This causes the white part of the eye to appear pink or red. Eye redness can affect one or both eyes and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as irritation, burning, itching, discharge, pain, or vision problems.

The appearance of red eyes can vary from a few enlarged blood vessels that create a spider web-like pattern to a completely pink or red sclera. While eye redness is often harmless and temporary, it can sometimes indicate serious eye conditions that require immediate medical attention. The severity and accompanying symptoms help determine whether the redness is a minor irritation or a medical emergency.

Eye redness is one of the most common eye complaints and can result from environmental factors, infections, allergies, injuries, or underlying health conditions. Understanding the various causes and recognizing warning signs is essential for proper eye care and preventing vision-threatening complications.

Common Causes

Infections and Inflammation

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

  • Dry eyes: Insufficient tear production
  • Eye strain: Computer use, reading
  • Contact lens wear: Overwear or poor hygiene
  • Smoke exposure: Cigarette or environmental
  • Alcohol consumption: Blood vessel dilation
  • Sleep deprivation: Tired, strained eyes
  • Swimming: Chlorine irritation
  • Wind or sun exposure: Environmental irritants

Serious Conditions

  • Acute angle-closure glaucoma: Medical emergency
  • Corneal ulcer: Open sore on cornea
  • Bleeding disorders: Subconjunctival hemorrhage
  • Eye trauma: Injury or foreign body
  • Chemical burns: Exposure to irritants
  • Orbital cellulitis: Deep eye socket infection
  • Endophthalmitis: Inner eye infection
  • Chalazion: Blocked oil gland

Associated Symptoms

Common Accompanying Symptoms

  • Eye pain or discomfort
  • Itching or burning sensation
  • Watery eyes or tearing
  • Eye discharge (clear, white, yellow)
  • Crusty eyelids, especially morning
  • Light sensitivity (photophobia)
  • Gritty or foreign body sensation
  • Swollen eyelids

Serious Warning Signs

  • Severe eye pain
  • Sudden vision changes or loss
  • Halos around lights
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Severe headache
  • Eye trauma or injury
  • Chemical exposure
  • Pupil abnormalities

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek immediate medical attention if eye redness is accompanied by:

  • Severe eye pain
  • Vision changes or sudden vision loss
  • Trauma to the eye
  • Chemical exposure to the eye
  • Severe headache with eye pain
  • Nausea and vomiting with eye symptoms
  • Halos or rainbows around lights
  • Eye discharge with fever
  • Light sensitivity with severe pain
  • Foreign object in the eye
  • Symptoms of acute glaucoma
  • Red eye in newborns

Diagnostic Approach

Healthcare providers evaluate eye redness through:

Diagnostic Methods

  • Visual examination: External eye inspection
  • Slit lamp examination: Detailed eye structure viewing
  • Visual acuity test: Check vision clarity
  • Pupil response: Light reaction testing
  • Eye pressure test: For glaucoma
  • Fluorescein staining: Detect corneal damage
  • Culture and sensitivity: For infections
  • Allergy testing: If allergic cause suspected

Treatment and Care

Home Care Measures

  • Remove contact lenses immediately
  • Apply cool compresses
  • Use artificial tears for dryness
  • Avoid rubbing eyes
  • Practice good eye hygiene
  • Limit screen time
  • Wear sunglasses outdoors
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Stay hydrated

Medical Treatments

  • Antibiotic drops for bacterial infections
  • Antiviral medications when indicated
  • Antihistamine drops for allergies
  • Steroid drops for inflammation
  • Glaucoma medications
  • Lubricating eye drops
  • Treatment of underlying conditions
  • Foreign body removal

Prevention

Reduce your risk of eye redness:

  • Hand hygiene: Wash hands before touching eyes
  • Contact lens care: Follow proper hygiene and replacement schedule
  • Avoid sharing: Eye makeup, towels, or eye drops
  • Protect eyes: Wear safety glasses when needed
  • Manage allergies: Avoid triggers, use medications
  • Take screen breaks: Follow 20-20-20 rule
  • Stay hydrated: Maintain eye moisture
  • Sleep well: Allow eyes to rest and recover
  • Avoid irritants: Smoke, chemicals, allergens
  • Regular eye exams: Detect problems early