Bloodshot Eyes Treatment

Bloodshot or red eyes, as the term suggests, refers to an eye condition, in which the white portion of the eye (sclera) turns red in color. This is basically due to the enlargement or inflammation of the minute blood vessels in the sclera, which in turn induces increased blood flow.

The main reason for congested blood vessels is lack of oxygen, particularly in the tissues that cover the eyes. Bloodshot eyes can also develop due to eye strain, dry environment, mechanical irritation, allergies, infection, injury, medicine side effect, common cold, and alcohol abuse.

In certain instances, bloodshot eyes are temporary without any significant long-term effects. Nevertheless, if red eyes cause pain, burning sensation, unusual discharge, and blurred vision, then it may indicate a severe problem.

Some of the symptoms that may be manifested with bloodshot eyes include itching, eye swelling, pain, photophobia, and dry eyes. Treatment is essential, if red eyes do not subside even after 3 days or there are other symptoms as well.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

Prior to advocating any bloodshot eyes treatment method, the eye specialist performs a detailed eye examination of the patient. In order to rule out other health conditions, the doctor may also study the symptoms and medical history of the patient.

In case of individuals, wherein bloodshot eyes are manifested as a sign of severe eye problems such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, corneal ulcer, further diagnostic tests will be conducted to check the severity of the disease.

In case of bloodshot eyes accompanied with dryness, artificial tears are the best solution. They can be easily purchased from any drugstore, and come in a variety of brand names and formulations.

Another effective solution are vasoconstrictors but if they are used for long, they contract the eye blood vessels and cause 'Rebound Hyperemia'. For eye allergies, individuals may go for antihistamine vasoconstrictor eye drops that are now available over the counter.

For mild cases of bloodshot eyes, remedies and eye care tips are equally effectual as that of therapeutic methods. Also by opting natural remedies, usage of eye drops and medication that contain chemical formulations should be avoided. Some of the effective bloodshot eye remedies include as follows.

Avoid rubbing your eyes as toxins on your hands can worsen the problem, and you might even scratch off that cornea.

For people who work on the computer, it is essential to look away from the screen every 20 minutes, and try to blink more.

Start taking hygiene seriously, and keep contacts and contact lenses clean as they act as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

For reducing eye redness, close your eyes and splash cold water over them. Also, applying cold compresses to the affected eyes can help soothe them. 

Another remedy for bloodshot eyes cure is saline irrigation of the eyes, especially when there is infection. By doing so, the foreign particles lingering in the eyes can be removed completely.

Dip two cotton balls in skimmed milk, squeeze the milk out properly and place them on the closed eyelids for a few minutes. Now, remove the cotton and wash your face with cold water.

Drinking Rooibos tea is also considered extremely beneficial for bloodshot eyes. For those who aren't comfortable with its taste, they can gently press their eyes with a cloth dipped in lukewarm Rooibos tea.

For preventing recurrent onsets of bloodshot eyes, you should incorporate lots of fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and flavonoids.

As we have observed, red eyes are mostly developed due to fatigue, allergens and exposure to other environmental factors. Considering this, the best effectual bloodshot eyes treatment is taking a note of the causes and avoiding them.

However, as with any health problem, if the condition persists for a prolonged period, it is imperative to seek proper medical attention.