Bloodshot Eye - Causes and Risks of Bloodshot Eyes
The term "Bloodshot eyes" is the colloquial way to refer to eye redness which occurs due to swollen or dilated blood vessels that causes the surface of the eye to look red. The more dilated a person's eye blood vessels are, the redder her eyes will appear.
In this page you will learn everything about bloodshot eyes, what causes them and when to seek help.
What Causes Bloodshot Eyes?
A common cause of red eyes that deserves a special mention is coughing. Rarely, when a person coughs he or she may develop a bright red bloody area on the sclera. The scientific term for this condition is subconjunctival hemorrhage and it's usually nothing to worry about, unless it hurts or doesn't go away within two weeks.
The other causes of bloodshot eyes are more common and they should be looked at by a professional to make sure nothing's wrong.
- Eye infections
- Eye allergies
- Foreign objects in the eye
- Bleeding issues
- Corneal scratches caused by dust, sand or contact glasses
- Advanced glaucoma (this is a medical emergency)
- Alcohol or drug consumption
- Smoking
- Exposure to chemicals
How to Cure Bloodshot Eyes?
Although there doesn't exist a definite cure for this condition, identifying the cause will allow you to prevent it in the future.
It might also be a good idea to purchase eye drops for whitening your eyes. Try a few different brands until you find one that works for you. Remember not to use them more than a few times per week and consult a doctor if you notice any changes in your vision/eyes.
When to Seek Help
Although eye redness is usually harmless, it can be an important indication of a dangerous condition. If your eyes are constantly "bloodshot" for no apparent reason, consult a doctor to see what's wrong. It could be something as simply as an allergy or a serious condition that requires immediate treatment.
If red eyes are accompanied with pain, it's also a very good idea to seek help as soon as possible. Lastly, if you experience any sudden changes in you vision at all, contact a doctor immediately.
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