Red eyes happen when the blood vessels on your eye surface dilate or expand usually because a foreign object or substance has entered your eye, or an infection has formed.
While red eyes usually resolve on their own, you can do any of the following ways to make the healing process speedier and easier:
Short-term solutions
1. Artificial tears
Tears help keep your eyes lubricated and clean. Short-term or long-term dryness might need a few drops of OTC artificial tears.
2. Warm compress
Soak a towel in warm water and wring it out. Your eye area is quite sensitive so make sure the temperature is at a tolerable level. Place the towel on your eyes for about 10 minutes. The heat will help increase the blood flow to your eyes and increase oil production on your eyelids, allowing your eyes to create more lubrication.
3. Cool compress
If warm compresses aren’t working, you can take the opposite approach. Soak a towel in cool water and wring out and apply the same way as a warm compress. The cold can reduce itchiness from irritation and relieve swelling. Be sure to keep the temperature at a tolerable level to avoid making the problem worse.
Long-term solutions
If red eyes are becoming a regular occurrence for you, then you may need to explore long-term solutions for your recurring eye irritations. You can try any of these tips to help clear away the redness, or consult your physician if symptoms persist.
Pay attention to your diet
Your eyes can get bloodshot if you’re not getting enough hydration. You need about 8 cups of water a day to maintain your body’s proper fluid balance.
Eating high amounts of processed food can also cause red eyes. These types of food cause inflammation if eaten in excess. Try cutting them out of your diet for a few days and see if the redness goes away.
Studies have also found that foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation. Salmon, nuts and seeds, such as flaxseed, are great sources of omega-3.
Switch contacts
If you’re a contact lens wearer and experience recurring red eyes, the problem may involve your eyewear. If you’ve recently switched lenses, or have worn the same type of lenses for a while – and regularly experience red eyes, you might need to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to help you pinpoint the problem.
Some contact lens solutions may also cause irritation as they contain ingredients that may not be compatible with certain contact lens materials. Make sure to only use the recommended solution for your lenses.
Be aware of your surroundings
Have a look around you and pay attention to potential eye irritants or allergens such as smoke or pollen. Humidity, dry air, and wind, can also cause red eyes.
Read the full article at Healthline here for more tips on caring for red eyes.
I just apply a little honey for itchy or dry eyes. Works everytime.
Hi, thanks for the tip! 🙂