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Causes and treatment of red eyes
Didn't get enough sleep and your eyes are red in the morning? This can happen from time to time and is not a cause for concern. But red eyes are not always harmless! Find out here when you should definitely go to the eye specialist and what you can do yourself.
Why do people get red eyes?
The causes of red eyes are very diverse, because the sensitive skin on the eyelids reacts quickly with irritation. The eyeball is criss-crossed with tiny capillaries, which can quickly appear reddened if, for example, the tear film ruptures and irritation of the surface of the eye occurs. Then the blood flow is increased, and the white of the eye appears reddened. However, red eyes can also be a serious alarm signal for infections and other eye diseases.
The most common causes of red eyes
- draughts, wind
- dry indoor air
- lack of sleep, fatigue, overexertion
- prolonged work at a computer screen
- smoke, fine dust
- allergies
- cosmetic intolerance
- contact lenses
- viral and bacterial infections
- conjunctivitis
- corneal inflammation
- inflammation of the eyelid margin (blepharitis)
- foreign body on the eye
- rupture of small vessels
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InfographicRed eyes
What do red eyes feel like?
Very often, red eyes are a symptom of sicca syndrome, commonly known as dry eyes. The otherwise white appearing surface of the eye has a reddish discolouration and is streaked with tiny blood vessels. Although the redness alone looks unsightly, it is usually not a problem for those affected. However, the other symptoms of dry eyes can be worse:
- burning
- itching
- scratching
- tearing
- swelling of the eyelids
- a gritty eye sensation
- eye pain
If one or more of these signs develop in combination with red eyes, you should consult an eye specialist to find out the cause.
When are red eyes harmless?
Red eyes are usually considered harmless after a short night, after a lively party with one too many glasses of wine, after being in a smoky or air-conditioned room, or if an eyelash gets into the eye. During the day, the redness usually disappears on its own once the eyes have recovered. Sometimes one of the fine blood vessels in the eye ruptures, turning the white of the eye red but causing no pain.
However, if red eyes keep recurring or if there are other complaints, you should not hesitate to consult an eye specialist to be on the safe side, because you may already be suffering from dry eyes that need treatment.
When are red eyes dangerous?
If your eyes suddenly become red, painful and sensitive to light for no apparent reason, conjunctivitis or corneal inflammation may already be starting. A viral or bacterial infection or inflammation should always be treated quickly to prevent further damage to the eye.
If there are also visual disturbances, this is an emergency and should be examined by a doctor as a matter of urgency. Redness following an injury to the eye should also be treated as soon as possible, as there is a threat of blindness.
What can I do about red eyes?
Of course, it always depends on why your eyes are red. Depending on the cause, you can treat them with simple home remedies or medicines:
- If you have not had enough sleep, then you should sleep. When the eyes have recovered sufficiently, the redness will also disappear.
- After a party, you can soothe your eyes with cooling compresses. An old home remedy is cucumber slices or tea bags.
- If your eyes are red from wearing contact lenses, it is best not to wear the lenses and to wear glasses until the redness has cleared up.
- If you have an intolerance to cosmetics, you should only use products that have been tested for eye compatibility. Also make sure that cosmetic products such as mascara do not get directly into your eye.
- An allergy should be treated by a doctor. Special eye drops usually help against red eyes.
- If red eyes always occur when you have been working at a computer screen for too long, take a break more often to let your eyes relax. Important: Blink several times in quick succession. This stimulates the production of tear fluid.
If dry eyes are the cause of the redness, lubricating eye drops will provide quick relief. These eye drops soothe the eyes, giving them protection and moisture. Alternatively, there are also eye ointments that adhere better to the surface of the eye.
Other eye diseases are treated on an individual basis with medication, depending on their cause. Your eye specialist will begin a suitable therapy after the examination.