Red eyes occur when blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye, become irritated and dilated. This condition can stem from various factors, including dry environments, exposure to smoke and dust, alcohol consumption, or prolonged use of electronic devices. Lack of sleep is another common cause, as the eyes do not get enough rest to recover. Insufficient sleep leads to reduced tear production, resulting in dryness, itching, and redness.

In most cases, red eyes are not serious and can be improved with simple measures. However, in some instances, red eyes can signal underlying conditions such as conjunctivitis, uveitis, corneal ulcers, or acute glaucoma. If red eyes are accompanied by severe pain, vision loss, light sensitivity, discharge, or nausea, individuals should seek prompt medical attention for an accurate assessment.

Here are some simple methods to alleviate red eyes:

Cold compress

A cold compress helps reduce red eyes by constricting blood vessels, thereby limiting redness and swelling around the eyes.

How to use:

Fill a bowl with ice water. Dip a clean cloth into the water until it is fully saturated. Remove the cloth and wring out excess water. Place it over closed eyes for about 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat several times daily.

Use artificial tears

Artificial tears, also known as soothing eye drops, are over-the-counter eye drops that help replenish and maintain moisture for dry eyes. Dry eyes can be caused by many factors such as environment (wind, smoke, dry climate), age (common in people over 50), prolonged use of electronic devices, or side effects of certain medications like antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medication, or antidepressants.

How to use:

Apply eye drops every hour for the first 6 hours, then maintain approximately 6 times a day for a week. Consult an ophthalmologist before using the product.

Antihistamine eye drops

Antihistamine eye drops are used to treat symptoms of eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), primarily itching, accompanied by red eyes, burning, or swelling. These symptoms appear due to an immune system reaction when exposed to allergens such as dust, pollen, or animal dander.

How to use:

Antihistamine eye drops are typically used at least 4 times daily or as directed by a doctor. Continuous use for more than 2-3 days without medical instruction is not recommended, as it may increase irritation or discomfort. If wearing contact lenses, wait about 10 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting them.

If symptoms do not improve or worsen, patients should seek medical attention for an assessment. Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, prostate enlargement, or glaucoma should consult a doctor before use.

Bao Bao (According to Verywell Health)