How to Get Rid of Red Eyes

What is a red eye?
A “red eye” is a general term to describe red, irritated and bloodshot eyes. The redness happens when tiny blood vessels under your eye’s surface get larger or become inflamed. Usually, it’s a reaction to something irritating your eye.

Redness can affect one or both eyes. It can develop over time or appear suddenly, such as with allergies or an eye injury.

What are the most common causes of a red eye?
Red eyes have many different causes. Sometimes, your eyes get red when you’ve worn your contact lenses too long or if you’ve been staring at your computer screen for too long without a break. Some other common causes include:

Allergies.
Blepharitis.
Pink eye (conjunctivitis).
Dry eye.
Eye injury.
Glaucoma.

What are the treatments for red eye?
Remedies for red eye are wide-ranging, and often they’re things you can do at home for yourself.

Many times, the following steps can relieve symptoms:

1. Rest.
2. Cool compresses over closed eyes.
3. Lightly massaging your eyelids.
4. Gently washing your eyelids.
5. Over-the-counter eye drops.
6. Other times, an eye care specialist may recommend and prescribe antibiotics, special eye drops or ointments.