It’s not uncommon to have bloodshot eyes after a late night or from staring at a computer screen for too long. Most of the time, the redness fades on its own.
But what if it doesn’t? If your eyes stay red for days or keep coming back despite using over-the-counter eye drops, it could be your eyes’ way of telling you something more serious is going on.
Thankfully, many causes of persistent red eyes are treatable right here at Bainbridge Eye Care in the Bronx, New York.
Dr. Nicanor Lacsina and Dr. Yelena Pinkhasova share four medical causes of red eye that you shouldn’t ignore.
It may sound backward, but eyes become red because they aren’t producing enough tears. They can also become red if your tears evaporate too quickly. Without adequate lubrication, the surface of your eye becomes irritated and inflamed.
Other symptoms may include:
If you have dry eye disease, our team may recommend prescription eye drops, such as Restasis®, Xiidra®, and Cequa™; in-office treatments, such as punctual plugs or Prokera®; or lifestyle changes.
Blepharitis is inflammation of your eyelids, particularly along the base of your eyelashes. When the tiny oil glands in your eyelids become clogged, your eyes may appear red and irritated.
You may also notice:
It's critical to identify the exact factors causing your symptoms. Dandruff, mites, acne, allergies, dry eyes, and even meibomian gland dysfunction can contribute to blepharitis.
Daily eyelid hygiene can often help control symptoms, but our team can also recommend treatments that tackle the root cause. For example, if allergies are contributing to blepharitis, we can walk you through your allergy treatment options.
Not every case of red eyes is caused by dry eyes or an infection. Sometimes, the culprit is seasonal allergies.
Allergies commonly cause red, itchy, watery eyes and may also make your eyelids appear puffy. Over-the-counter allergy medications may provide comfort; however, consistent redness or symptoms after allergy season ends may suggest an eye infection. (Allergies can also be year-round, especially if you’re allergic to indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander.)
Allergies can also contribute to conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye. Despite its name, not every case is contagious. Viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants can also produce conjunctivitis.
If your red eyes are accompanied by thick discharge, significant pain, swelling, or vision changes, don’t try to diagnose yourself.
Not every eye injury comes with a dramatic story. In fact, something as simple as a scratched cornea, a piece of dust in your eye, or even accidentally poking your eye while inserting a contact lens can leave your eye red, irritated, and painful.
Depending on the severity of the injury, you may also experience:
Treatment for corneal abrasions depends on the severity of your injury and may include antibiotic and lubricating eye drops, as well as pain-relieving medication if needed.
Most minor corneal abrasions heal within 24 to 72 hours, but proper eye care helps reduce the risk of complications or infections.
While many causes of red eyes aren’t emergencies, some symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Seek emergency eye care if your red eye is accompanied by:
These symptoms may indicate a more serious eye condition, such as uveitis, acute angle-closure glaucoma, a corneal ulcer, or another vision-threatening problem that requires prompt evaluation from Dr. Lacsina and Dr. Pinkhasova.
Over-the-counter eye drops may temporarily reduce redness, but they don’t treat what’s causing it. Whether your symptoms are due to dry eye disease, allergies, an infection, or another eye condition, getting the right diagnosis is your first step in finding relief from red eyes.
If persistent red eyes plague you, it’s time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Dr. Lacsina and Dr. Pinkhasova can identify the source of your symptoms and recommend the treatment that’s right for you today.
You can also reach us at 718-306-9127.
