Red or bloodshot eyes during an illness are often a direct result of the underlying physical condition. Redness occurs when the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva—the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye—become enlarged and visible. While this symptom is frequently temporary, it signals that your body is dealing with an infection or inflammation.
Common Connections Between Illness and Ocular Redness
The most common reason for red eyes during illness is viral conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye. Viruses causing upper respiratory infections, such as those responsible for the common cold, can easily travel to the eyes. This occurs because the respiratory mucous membranes are continuous with the conjunctiva via the nasolacrimal duct.
The inflammation leads to characteristic redness, watering, and a gritty sensation. This form of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and typically follows the course of the cold, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other. The eye symptoms are a localized manifestation of the primary viral process the body is already fighting.
Many illnesses, particularly those with fever, trigger a generalized inflammatory response. When the immune system is activated, blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes, dilate. This vascular dilation increases blood flow for immune cell delivery and contributes to the bloodshot appearance even without a direct eye infection.
Sinus congestion and inflammation also contribute due to the close anatomical relationship between the sinuses and the eye sockets. Swollen nasal passages create pressure on surrounding tissues, causing discomfort or redness around the eyes. Blocked tear ducts resulting from sinus congestion can also disrupt normal tear flow, leading to irritation.
Immediate Home Relief Strategies
Strict hygiene is the most important step for immediate home management, especially if contagious conjunctivitis is suspected. Frequent and thorough hand washing helps prevent the spread of viruses or bacteria to others or to your other eye. You should also avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this introduces irritants and worsens inflammation.
Applying compresses provides significant symptomatic relief, but the type depends on the primary symptom. A cool compress is best for reducing swelling and itchiness associated with viral irritation, as the cold constricts blood vessels. Conversely, a warm compress is beneficial if your eyes feel sticky or crusty, as the heat helps loosen dried discharge.
Over-the-counter, preservative-free artificial tears can be used liberally to soothe the irritated eye surface. These drops lubricate the eyes and wash away irritants or discharge, providing temporary comfort. To minimize contagion, isolate items that have touched your eyes, such as towels and pillowcases, and wash them in hot water.
Signs That Require a Doctor Visit
While many cases of red eyes resolve on their own, certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation to prevent complications. Any sudden change in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or decreased visual acuity, should be addressed immediately. These changes suggest that the infection or inflammation has moved beyond the surface of the eye.
Severe, throbbing, or deep pain in the eye, rather than just surface irritation, is a serious warning sign. Extreme sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, also warrants an urgent consultation. These symptoms may signal more serious conditions, such as uveitis or keratitis, which involve deeper structures of the eye.
The nature of the discharge is a helpful indicator. Viral infections typically cause a watery discharge, while a thick, yellow, or greenish discharge that leads to crusting often signals a bacterial infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops. If symptoms persist or worsen after 48 hours, or if you experience a high fever or nausea alongside your eye symptoms, seek medical attention.