Bloodshot eyes appear when tiny blood vessels on the eye’s surface become enlarged and more visible, giving the white part of the eye, known as the sclera, a red or pinkish hue. This common redness can stem from various factors, ranging from minor irritation to more significant underlying issues.
Understanding Bloodshot Eyes
Bloodshot eyes can be triggered by a variety of common irritants and conditions. Environmental factors such as dust, smoke, or allergens can cause irritation, leading to visible redness. Extended periods of eye strain, often from digital screens or lack of sufficient sleep, also contribute to this appearance.
Dry eyes, a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly, frequently cause redness, along with sensations of stinging or burning. Minor infections, like conjunctivitis (pink eye), also lead to inflamed blood vessels and redness. In some instances, a subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a small blood vessel on the eye’s surface breaks, resulting in a bright red spot.
Typical Duration Based on Cause
The duration of bloodshot eyes varies significantly depending on the underlying cause. For redness due to environmental factors like smoke or dust, or from eye strain and fatigue, it typically resolves within a few hours to a day once the irritant is removed or adequate rest is obtained.
When bloodshot eyes are caused by allergies, the redness can persist for hours to days, lasting as long as exposure to the allergen continues. Symptoms tend to subside once the allergen is avoided or when antihistamine eye drops are used. Dry eyes can cause chronic or intermittent redness. Regular use of lubricating eye drops can help alleviate persistent dryness.
In the case of conjunctivitis (pink eye), the duration depends on its type. Viral conjunctivitis commonly lasts for one to two weeks, though some cases may extend up to three weeks or more. Bacterial conjunctivitis often resolves within a week even without treatment, but may take up to 10 days to two weeks to clear completely. If antibiotics are prescribed, improvement can be seen within 24 hours. A subconjunctival hemorrhage typically resolves on its own within one to three weeks as the blood is reabsorbed by the body.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many instances of bloodshot eyes are temporary, certain symptoms or circumstances indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Seeking immediate medical care is advised if you experience sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness or light sensitivity, alongside eye redness. Significant eye pain or severe discomfort also warrants prompt medical attention, especially if over-the-counter remedies do not provide relief.
The presence of discharge from the eye, particularly if it is pus or thick mucus, suggests a possible infection. Other concerning signs include a fever, chills, or body aches. Consult a healthcare provider if:
The redness lasts longer than expected or worsens despite home care.
You have a recent eye injury.
You feel a foreign object stuck in the eye.
There is a sudden onset of severe redness in only one eye.
Home Remedies and Care
For mild cases of bloodshot eyes, or while awaiting medical consultation, several practical measures can help alleviate discomfort. Resting the eyes by reducing screen time and getting adequate sleep can significantly improve redness caused by fatigue or strain. Applying a cool compress over closed eyes for about ten minutes a few times a day can help reduce irritation and swelling.
Consider these home care strategies:
Use over-the-counter artificial tears to moisten dry eyes and wash away irritants.
Avoid known irritants such as smoke, dust, pollen, or pet dander.
Practice good hygiene: wash hands frequently and avoid rubbing your eyes.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them or ensure proper hygiene.
These strategies offer temporary relief and support the healing process, but are not a substitute for professional medical advice if symptoms are persistent or severe.