Redness in the corner of the eye, often called a bloodshot eye corner, typically results from dilated blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. This common symptom usually has temporary and non-serious causes. Understanding these factors can help determine appropriate care.
Common Reasons for Redness
Many everyday occurrences can lead to redness in the corner of the eye. Simple irritants like dust, smoke, or other environmental factors can cause localized redness. Allergens such as pollen or pet dander can also trigger an allergic response, resulting in red, itchy eyes.
Dry eye syndrome, characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, is another common cause. It often makes the eyes feel gritty and appear red. Prolonged screen time can exacerbate dry eye symptoms by reducing blinking frequency, leading to increased tear evaporation.
A subconjunctival hemorrhage presents as a bright red patch on the white of the eye, similar to a bruise on the skin. This occurs when a tiny blood vessel just beneath the conjunctiva breaks, often without pain or vision changes, though it can look alarming. It typically resolves on its own within one to three weeks as the body reabsorbs the blood.
Eye strain, frequently caused by extended periods of focusing on screens or reading, can lead to tired, irritated, and red eyes. Using digital devices often reduces blinking, contributing to dryness and redness. Minor infections or inflammation, such as mild conjunctivitis or blepharitis, can also cause localized redness, sometimes with a burning sensation or discharge.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many instances of eye redness are harmless, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. Seek medical advice if redness persists for longer than 24 to 48 hours without improvement.
Any accompanying eye pain, throbbing, or severe discomfort should prompt a visit to an eye care professional. Changes in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, increased sensitivity to light, or a decrease in overall vision, are also important warning signs.
Any eye discharge, especially if yellow, green, or thick, suggests a possible infection requiring diagnosis and treatment. Other symptoms like fever, headache, nausea, or generally feeling unwell alongside eye redness warrant medical evaluation. If redness occurred after an eye injury or if you are a contact lens wearer experiencing red eyes, consult a doctor to rule out more serious complications.
Relief and Prevention Strategies
For non-serious cases of bloodshot eyes, several home remedies and preventive measures can offer relief and support eye health. Applying a cool compress to closed eyes can help reduce swelling and alleviate itchiness. Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can soothe irritation and help wash away irritants or allergens.
Minimizing exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, and allergens is a key preventive step; wearing sunglasses outdoors can help block these particles. Maintaining good eye hygiene, including frequent hand washing and avoiding rubbing the eyes, can prevent germ introduction and further irritation.
For individuals who spend extended periods in front of screens, practicing the 20-20-20 rule can mitigate eye strain: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This allows eye muscles to relax. Staying hydrated also supports tear production, keeping eyes lubricated and preventing dryness.