Reasons Why Your Eyes Are Bloodshot

There are many reasons why eyes become red or bloodshot. Some are of no medical concern, other reasons can be indications of medical problems or even emergencies.Whatever the reasons red or bloodshot eyes are not an attractive sight, especially when forming that most important first impression through eye contact.

Bloodshot eyes, also known as red eyes or in medical speak, Sceral injection or Conjuctival injection, are caused by enlarged dilated blood vessels showing on the surface of the eye.

The intensity of the redness is not indicative of the seriousness of the condition but if accompanied by pain or itchiness in the eye then medical attention should be sought.

Amongst the more common causes for red eyes is their exposure to dust and other foreign bodies, infection, a blow or impact trauma to the eye, dry air or an allergy such as hay fever.

Excessive coughing or other strain can result a dense red blotch to appear on the white of the eye (Scelera) which is caused by a minor burst or haemorrage of a small surface blood vessel. As long as it does not hurt do not be concerned as it will clear up without treatment within a few days.

The most common cause of eye redness needing treatment is Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. This is an infection of the eye resulting in inflammation that can vary in intensity from irritating to extremely uncomfortable and painful.

There are several causes including allergies viruses and bacteria. Conjunctivitis can be contagious so avoid rubbing the eyes and safely dispose of any tissues etc. used to wipe away the tears and watering that accompany this infection and seek advice.

Blepharitis is an infection of the eyelids resulting in itchiness, bloodshot eyes, and an unpleasant crustiness and greasiness around the lids – not a pleasant sight. It is caused by bacteria that inflame the eye lash follicles so be sure to stick to a regular cleaning regime when removing eye makeup.

Detached Retina can be caused by a blow to the eye or head which will affect the inside back of the eyeball where focused images are received. Other causes relate to  short sightedness and age. The fluid in the eyeball can undergo a change when we reach 50-60 years old making the eye more susceptible to this problem.

The key is to recognize the symptom as soon as possible, treat as an emergency and seek immediate help at your nearest eye clinic. The good news is that in most cases the lesion can be repaired painlessly by Laser treatment. The early sign is the appearance usually in the corner of the field of vision of the affected eye of a crescent shaped black area that can within a short time spread obliterating all the eye’s vision.

Although not always directly related to eye redness this condition can lead to loss of sight in the affected eye unless the symptoms are recognized and immediate treatment is carried out. As a point of interest many boxers have had their careers curtailed by the governing bodies after suffering from a detached retina.

Corneal Scratches cause redness and can be acutely painful. Sand, grit or other foreign bodies including contact lenses, can scratch the transparent area (Cornea) of the eyes surface. Grit in your eye which becomes trapped under a contact lens can be particularly nasty and users of contacts are advised to wear eye protection such as sunglasses in windy conditions where sand or dust can be flying about.

Be aware that some drugs can cause eye redness, in particular blood thinning drugs can be responsible. Seek the advice of your physician if in doubt.

Hopefully this information will help you to avoid or at least reduce eye redness problems. It is so important to your looks and self confidence that your eyes are clear and healthy looking when you make that first eye contact with others.