Why eyes are red: reasons
The main causes of red eyes:
- allergic reaction to medications, chemicals, wool, etc.;
- diseases (xerophthalmia, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, colds, etc.);
- sensitive reaction to foreign objects;
- ultraviolet radiation;
- sleepless nights;
- incorrectly selected contact lenses, wearing them incorrectly;
- tears that irritate the mucous membrane of the eye;
- chronic fatigue associated with heavy eye strain.
To understand how to treat red eyes in your case, you need to establish the cause of the problem.
Causes of red eyes
The causes of red eyes can primarily be diseases.
These are mainly pathologies of an infectious nature (conjunctivitis, keratitis), episcleritis (inflammation of the sclera), allergies or dermatological diseases affecting the edges of the eyelids (demodex or blepharitis).
Redness can also be caused by the following non-pathological reasons:
- cry;
- exposure to sunlight;
- lack of sleep;
- irritation from contact lenses;
- chronic eye fatigue from constant unbearable strain on vision;
- prolonged presence in dusty rooms;
- getting any foreign objects into the eyes.
Red eyes after sleep - why?
Causes of red eyes in the morning:
- weather;
- carcinogens contained in tobacco smoke;
- getting a foreign object into the eye;
- unsuitable contact lenses or wearing them incorrectly;
- allergy;
- eye injury;
- hangover;
- increased strain on the eyes;
- lack of sleep;
- colds;
- cry;
- eye diseases;
- prolonged stress state;
- high blood pressure.
If the eyes are red, they become mucus and itch. Allergy
An allergic reaction of the eyes is a normal protective function of the body that responds to any irritants of the mucous membrane of the eye.
This reaction of the body manifests itself in the form of tears, swelling, itching, redness of the whites, irritated eyelids and fear of sunlight - all of which can cause vision loss.
To avoid negative consequences with vision, you need to determine in time what caused the redness of the eyes and how to further treat the disease.
An allergic reaction can be caused by:
- violation of the body's immune system;
- genetic predisposition;
- chronic diseases;
- improper wearing of contact lenses;
- plant pollen;
- household dust;
- inhalation of chemicals;
- taking medications;
- animal hair;
- low air temperature;
- surgical intervention.
Types of eye allergies:
- Vernal keratoconjunctivitis;
- Pollinous conjunctivitis;
- Seasonal allergies;
- Chronic allergies;
- Allergic conjunctivitis;
- Infectious allergy;
- Large papillary allergic conjunctivitis;
- Drug-induced conjunctivitis.
The symptoms of an allergic reaction may be different for each patient, it all depends on the course of the disease and other influencing factors, but they are basically similar.
Allergies can be acute or chronic. During the acute form, the body reacts to the allergen instantly , while the chronic form makes itself felt on the second day and later. Symptoms are variable and may appear and disappear.
Signs of an allergic reaction:
- eye inflammation;
- swelling of the eyelids;
- itching;
- optosis;
- bright light.
If the above signs of an allergic reaction occur, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Diagnosis is carried out by allergists or ophthalmologists, after which the doctor explains in detail how and how to treat red eyes and other allergic manifestations.
He will prescribe a number of other tests, since such symptoms can be observed during more severe diseases.
Attention! You cannot ignore the slightest symptoms of eye inflammation, because it is dangerous for vision and overall human health.
Methods of diagnosis and treatment at home
Of course, the most correct thing would be to visit a doctor who can make a correct diagnosis. However, if you are sure that the cause of the symptom is harmless, and there are no other signs of inflammation, you can try to cope on your own using the following measures:
- Give your eyes a rest. For full recovery, nightly sleep should be at least 8 hours. If you have to work at a computer for a long time, then take breaks every hour, giving your eyes a rest. Even while working, avert your eyes and blink frequently - this will relax the muscles and keep the surface of the eyes moisturized;
- Eliminate irritating factors. If redness is the result of allergic irritation, then try to exclude possible triggers from your daily routine: foods, perfumes, household chemicals, medications. If irritation is caused by continuous use of contact lenses, then limit their wearing or stop using them for a while;
- Use safe products. To relieve irritation and redness, use only the most harmless means yourself: artificial tears, a compress of raw potatoes or strong tea, just cold lotions.
If these mostly preventive remedies do not bring relief within 2-3 days, as well as in the presence of other symptoms of inflammation, it is worth visiting a doctor, who may recommend one of the following remedies:
- Antibiotics. They can be prescribed as ointments or drops in case of bacterial infection. These are drugs from the groups of cephalosporins, sulfonamides, tetracycline, chloramphenicol;
- Vasoconstrictors. The most commonly used is tetrizoline, an alpha-adrenergic agonist that causes rapid constriction of blood vessels. The period of use of such products should not exceed 4-5 days, otherwise addiction may develop;
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – Naklof, Diclof. These drugs are prescribed for inflammation caused by the use of medications (Dicaine, Inocaine, etc.). NSAIDs are used if the use of glucocorticosteroids is impossible: Dexamethasone, Tobradex, Prenacid.
Any eye medication can be used only after a thorough diagnosis and examination by an ophthalmologist.
Other symptoms and their causes
The above reasons for red eyes can be supplemented with others, such as:
- inflammation of the cornea of the eye;
- inflammation of the iris or fibrous membrane of the eyeball;
- UV radiation;
- bright light;
- swimming;
- bad habits;
- getting gases into the eyes.
Possible diseases
The most dangerous group of diseases that requires urgent response is the development of inflammation in a number of eye diseases:
- Vaccination is the reaction of the cornea to smallpox vaccination;
- Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea provoked by various microorganisms and other pathogenic factors;
- Eye herpes – penetration and introduction of the herpes virus;
- Herpes zoster is a disease caused by a specific herpes virus;
- Dacryocystitis, dacryoadenitis, knalyculitis are inflammations that affect various parts of the lacrimal system;
- Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye of various etiologies;
- Barley – inflammation of the hair follicles of the eyelashes, upper or lower eyelids;
- Injuries (displacement of the lens, development of secondary glaucoma, etc.);
- Orbital abscess is a limited inflammation of the tissues of the orbit, filled with pus.
If the process of redness of the eyes is non-inflammatory, then its cause may be keratopathy, keratoconus, corneal ulcer, pterygium, glaucoma, trichiasis and other diseases. Sometimes the cause is a simple hemorrhage caused by overexertion.
However, non-inflammatory causes of eye redness are relatively rare. But additional symptoms of inflammation can be a sign of an incipient inflammatory process: a feeling of “sand” in the eyes, photophobia and lacrimation, purulent discharge. Sometimes there may even be a deterioration in the general condition, which is associated with intoxication of the body due to inflammation. The appearance of even some symptoms is a serious reason to visit a specialist.
With the progression of chronic somatic diseases in internal organs, normal vascular tone is disrupted, and blood clotting also changes. In this case, redness of the eyes is an additional symptom of pathology. This may be a sign of the following diseases:
- Hypertension – high blood pressure;
- Allergic diseases: bronchial asthma, rhinitis, hay fever, etc.;
- Arthritis – inflammatory diseases of the joints;
- Diabetes;
- Intoxication for a long time (alcohol, tobacco smoke, during pregnancy);
- Inflammatory processes in the intestines;
- Effect of radiation;
- Poor blood clotting;
- Overdose of medications that reduce blood clotting.
As a rule, redness caused by these pathological processes lasts a long time, however, they are not associated with the progression of inflammation and require treatment of the root cause.
Oftocipro: eye ointment with instructions
This article describes the drug Okopin with recommendations for use.
The benefits of eye drops Oko-plus https://eyesdocs.ru/medicinaoperacii/lekarstva/oko-plyus-universalnoe-sredstvo-protiv-glaznyx-narushenij.html
What diseases are symptoms of red eyes?
Diseases that cause red eyes:
- Allergic conjunctivitis;
- Bacterial conjunctivitis;
- Viral conjunctivitis;
- Chemical conjunctivitis;
- Subconjunctivitis;
- Dry keratoconjunctivitis;
- Morax-Axenfeld blepharoconjunctivitis;
- Tumor of the conjunctiva;
- Keratitis;
- Dacryoadenitis;
- Dacryocystitis;
- Canaliculitis;
- Keratoconjunctivitis;
- Corneal ulcer;
- Peripheral thinning and ulceration of the cornea;
- Keratoconus;
- Keratopathy;
- Lichen ophthalmicus;
- Episcleritis;
- Scleritis;
- Glaucoma;
- Uveitis;
- Pterygium;
- Pseudopterygium;
- Pinguecula of the eye;
- Pemphigus of the conjunctiva;
- Floppy eyelid syndrome;
- Trichiasis;
- Detachment of the choroid;
- Inflammation of the eyelids;
- Chorioretinal inflammation;
- Iridocyclitis;
- Traumatic eye injury;
- Panophthalmitis;
- Episcleritis;
- Abscess of the orbit of the eye;
- Optic neuritis;
- Idiopathic hypertension of the episcleral veins.
Redness of the eyes indicates a wide range of pathological abnormalities. Basically, it is a sign of inflammatory diseases, especially various forms of conjunctiva.
Therefore, it is easier, by initially taking care of your health, to prevent diseases that cause red eyes than to later diagnose and treat them.
Why is the eye red and watery?
It should be noted that there are various external risk factors for eye hyperemia and increased tear production. This is exposure to dust or smoke in the eyes, contact exposure to detergents or other household chemicals (containing phosphates, which cause an allergic reaction of the skin and mucous membranes), and in women, decorative cosmetics. Red eye syndrome occurs due to eye fatigue and prolonged eye strain. And in old age and in children, the eyes often become watery and red from cold wind, very bright light or exposure to water.
Experts associate the pathological causes of these symptoms with a number of ophthalmological diseases of an infectious nature.
If the eyelid is swollen, it seems that something has got into the eye, the eye itself is red, it hurts and is watery, then most often this is how the first signs of inflammation of its mucous membrane appear - conjunctivitis. Redness is noted on the tarsal conjunctiva (on the inside of the eyelids). After a couple of days, the discharge becomes thicker due to the addition of pus, that is, the eye is red, swollen, watery and festering. By the way, similar symptoms are also observed with inflammation of the lacrimal gland (dacryoadenitis).
Depending on the pathogen, conjunctivitis is defined as bacterial (pneumococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella, pseudomonads may be involved in its development) or viral (including those caused by the herpes virus). And when red, watery eyes and a runny nose, these are most likely symptoms of damage to the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx and conjunctiva of the eyes by one of the serotypes of the Adenoviridae virus - adenoviral conjunctivitis. And complaints that the eyes are red and watery in the morning may mean the presence of epidemic hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, which spreads exclusively through contact and initially affects one eye (causing pain and an increased reaction to light).
However, the conjunctiva can also become inflamed as a result of a systemic allergic reaction, which is responsible for the pathogenesis of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. In such cases, the nose is stuffy, the eyes are red, watery and itchy, and there is swelling of the eyelids.
Also, the eyes become very watery and red with keratoconjunctivitis: when the infection affects not only the conjunctiva, but also the corneal epithelium that passes into it. In addition, the cornea can be infected by water-dwelling amoeba of the genus Acanthamoeba, causing acanthamoeba keratitis. According to experts, risk factors for this disease are damage to the cornea, in particular in those who wear contact lenses.
In addition to conjunctivitis, keratitis or dacryoadenitis, red eyelids and watery eyes (often with purulent discharge) with the development of an inflammatory process in the hair follicles of the eyelashes - blepharitis (or with combined inflammation - blepharoconjunctivitis), as well as with infection of the meibomian glands located along the edge of the eyelids (meibomian blepharitis or meibomite).
With hyperemia, ophthalmalgia and hypersecretion of tear fluid - in other words, if the eye is red, hurts and watery - there is a suspicion of either glaucoma, the pathogenesis of which is associated with increased intraocular pressure, or episcleritis or anterior diffuse scleritis. Scleritis is an inflammation of the outer layer of the eyes (sclera); it can be bacterial or autoimmune in etiology (that is, it can develop in people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases).
Pericorneal injection of the vessels of the eyes (that is, their redness), lacrimation, photophobia, blepharospasm and decreased visual acuity are manifestations of inflammation of the choroid of the eyes - uveitis, which has a different etiology (infectious, endocrine, autoimmune).
Why does a child have red eyes and how to treat them?
Red eyes in a child may indicate serious disorders in the body. Even if the redness is not very pronounced, it may indicate the onset of an infectious disease or the presence of an allergy.
If redness is detected in the eyes of a child, it is necessary to immediately diagnose and further eliminate the eye pathology.
Statistics of examinations of more than 50% of children with these symptoms showed the course of infectious diseases: adenoviral infection was in first place, measles in second place.
About 90% of studies showed that the cause of eye redness was direct contact with the allergen.
Knowing these statistics will help mothers prevent the development of serious diseases in time.
Causes of red eyes in children:
- infectious disease;
- respiratory;
- viral infection;
- eye damage;
- kidney disease;
- bronchial asthma;
- allergy.
Treating eye redness in adults at home
Let's assume that you already know what the cause of the disease is. This means that it’s time to start treatment directly.
In cases where red eyes are caused by lack of sleep or excessive tiredness and fatigue, simply give your eyes more rest. It has been proven that the mucous membrane rests along with the body; try to sleep consistently for eight hours a day. Within a few days you will notice how the redness has subsided and healthy and beautiful eyes have replaced them.
Suppose we find out that the cause of the symptom is intolerance to highly allergenic cosmetics:
- First, try to choose makeup products made from natural substances.
- Secondly, make it a rule: spend your weekends with natural makeup, or better yet, without it.
In pharmacies you can find a lot of remedies against eye redness that promise quick results. It is quite possible that the effect will be exactly the same, however, from frequent use of drops, the mucous membrane loses its protective functions.
The best way to treat your eyes at home is with all kinds of compresses made from soothing herbs. The most common ice cubes are no less effective. And tea bags, which almost instantly relieve redness, can always be found in the house.
Take a relaxing pose, prepare compresses in advance and repeat the procedure every day, morning and evening. The effect of tea bags will not take long to appear, so ten minutes will be more than enough.
Tetracycline ointment
On the Internet you can find references to tetracycline-based ointments. It has a wide range of beneficial properties: removing redness from the eyes is one of them. You can apply the ointment at home. To do this, wash your face thoroughly and dry it. Then massage the ointment applied onto the eyelids. The longer the ointment stays on the skin, the better. Repeat the manipulations at least three times a day.
However, you should know that the active ingredient in the ointment is an antibiotic, which is indicated only for bacterial infections (for example, conjunctivitis), and a small amount of the product is placed behind the lower eyelid. All other options for using the ointment are inappropriate. Only a doctor prescribes such therapy; self-medication with antibiotics is unacceptable.
Another effective way is to use small pieces of raw potatoes. This remedy has been used for centuries, which means it can be completely trusted. Close your eyes and place the pieces on your eyelids, after half an hour, remove them and wash your face.
Note! All of the above remedies will only be good in a situation where the redness is not caused by damage or a serious illness. Otherwise, consult a doctor immediately.
Treating red eyes in a child at home
As mentioned earlier, treatment for red eyes in a child differs from treatment in an adult. The child's body is so susceptible to various kinds of diseases that young mothers, as a rule, run to the doctor at the slightest symptoms. However, in most cases they can cope with the redness themselves.
Chamomile treatment
Leading pediatricians and ophthalmologists unanimously say that the best remedy for treating red eyes in a child is chamomile decoction. You can prepare it as follows:
- fresh and healthy chamomile flowers should be thoroughly washed;
- we get rid of the petals, leaving only the buds;
- grind the chamomile as much as possible;
- add the resulting composition to boiling water and cook for fifteen minutes (no more);
- carefully filter and place the broth in a warm room for three hours;
- We soak clean gauze with the prepared decoction and apply it to the child’s eyes.
Attention! It is recommended to perform procedures throughout the day, if possible every four hours. The very next day your child will look at you with healthy eyes.
How to treat red eyes
Treatment of the eyes is necessarily etiological in nature , which means that appropriate anti-infective, antihistamine and other drugs will be used in the fight against the pathogen.
Complex treatment is used for adenoviral infections using antiviral and symptomatic medications.
Before treating eye redness due to a viral disease, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the medications.
"Laferobion 150000"
This is an active substance for rectal use. Contains recombinant human interferon. Taken on the first day of illness.
After the first dose, the child will feel much better. Strengthens the body's immune system , which helps reduce the risk of infection with new infections.
The medicine is absolutely safe, so it is suitable for treating infants.
Dosage of the drug for up to a year:
- 150 thousand IU/1 supp./2 r per day. with an interval of 12 hours;
- in case of bacterial infection, the dose of the drug is increased, 3 r. per day, with a break of 8 hours, course of therapy is 5-7 days;
- 8 hours, course of therapy 5-7 days.
Dosage of the drug from 1 year:
- children 1-7 years old - 500 thousand IU / 2 rubles. per day;
- children 7-14 years old – 1 million IU/2 rubles. per day;
- children 14-15 years old – 1 million IU/2 rubles. per day
"Aquamaris"
This is a medicine for rinsing the nasal cavity with severe muconasal discharge.
Thanks to the active component - sodium chloride, the drug copes well with adenoviral infections, resumes nasal breathing, relieves puffiness of the eyes, restores blood circulation in the capillaries, and eliminates redness of the eyes.
Drug dosage:
- up to 1 year - 1 drop/1 injection into each passage of the nasal cavity/4 r. per day;
- from 1 year – 2 drops.
"Paracetamol"
This is an antipyretic medicine for viral infections.
Increases the immune system of the child's body, reduces the painful effects of bright rays of light that cause redness of the eyes.
Dosage of the drug: one-time 10-15 mg per 1 kg of body weight.
"Clarithromycin"
This antiviral agent, which fights chlamydial infection , has an effect on intracellular microorganisms, stopping the persistence of the pathogen.
Dosage of the drug from 3 years:
- 1st day – 2 hours after eating 10 mg/per 1 kg of weight/1 r. per day;
- from the 2nd to the 10th day - 2 hours after eating 5 mg/per 1 kg of weight/1 r. per day, course of treatment is 5-10 days.
"L-cet"
This is an antihistamine drug used for allergies. Effectively prevents bronchospasms or any skin reactions.
Dosage of the drug: children from 6 months. – 1/2 rub. per day
Vitamins should be used for children in the autumn and winter for preventive purposes.
Causes of redness
Redness occurs due to dilation of the tiny blood vessels located between the sclera and the overlying clear conjunctiva of the eye. These tiny blood vessels (many of which are usually invisible) can become swollen due to environment or lifestyle, or due to specific eye problems.
Red eyes are most often caused by allergies, eye fatigue, and eye infections such as conjunctivitis. But sometimes they can be a symptom of more dangerous diseases, such as glaucoma.
Environmental causes of red eye:
- airborne allergens (causing eye allergies);
- air pollution;
- smoke (fire-related and second-hand cigarette smoke);
- dry air (arid climates, airplane cabins and office buildings);
- dust;
- air vapors (gasoline, solvents);
- chemical exposure (chlorine in swimming pools);
- plenty of sunlight (no UV protection sunglasses).
Common eye conditions that cause red eyes include:
- dry eyes;
- eye allergies;
- conjunctivitis;
- contact lens wear;
- digital eye strain.
Serious reasons that can cause redness:
- eye infections;
- eye damage or injury;
- recent eye surgery;
- acute glaucoma;
- corneal ulcer.
Lifestyle factors can also contribute to red eyes. For example, smoking can certainly cause red eyes, as can significant alcohol consumption. Persistent use of digital devices and insufficient sleep are also very common causes.
Eye drops for fatigue and redness
Itching, burning, redness are a natural reaction of the eyes to prolonged stress. For example, spending a long time in front of a monitor screen, lack of sleep, etc.
Such harmless symptoms lead to serious consequences; to avoid them, you must have special eye drops with you.
"Cationorm"
These eye drops consist of positively charged particles with an oil core, without containing preservatives.
Compound:
- oils with minerals;
- purified water;
- glycerol;
- tyloxapol;
- 188 poloxamer;
- trishydrochloride and tromethamine;
- Cetalkonium Cl.
Mechanism of action: relax muscle tissue, correct intraocular pressure , moisturize, cleanse the eyes, relieve fatigue and redness.
Price of the drug: on average 500.00 rubles.
"Vial"
These are vasoconstrictor eye drops.
Compound:
- main component – tetrizoline;
- benzalkonium chloride;
- disodium phosphate dodecahydrate;
- sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate;
- disodium edetate;
- sodium chloride;
- water for injections.
Mechanism of action: reduce the level of allergic symptoms, relieve swelling, fatigue and redness of the eyes , stimulate adrenergic receptors of the autonomic nervous system, constrict blood vessels.
Price of the drug: from 100.00 - 150.00 rub.
"Systane"
These are drops against eye fatigue.
Compound:
- polydronium, zinc, sodium, calcium chlorides;
- polyethylene glycol;
- propylene glycol;
- boric acid;
- hydroxypropyl guar.
Mechanism of action: eliminates “dry eye syndrome” and the consequences caused by it.
Price of the drug: from 515.00 - 673.00 rub.
"Oftagel"
These are artificial tears.
Compound:
- main component – carbomer;
- benzalkonium chloride;
- sorbitol;
- polyvinyl alcohol;
- sodium acetate;
- lysine monohydrate;
- water.
Mechanism of action: moisturizes, nourishes the mucous membrane of the eye, relieves pain, relieves fatigue, tension and redness of the eyes . When used regularly, it prevents vision loss.
Price of the drug: from 293.00 - 318 rubles.
Folk remedies for red eyes
Traditional medicine offers a lot of proven and simple ways to eliminate this problem. The ingredients for making home remedies can be found in every home.
How to remove red eyes:
- Ice cubes. Take ice cubes, wrap them in a clean, thin cloth and apply to closed eyelids. You need to keep this cold compress for about 25–30 minutes. If there is no ice, you can simply moisten a handkerchief with cold water and apply it to your eyes. Cold constricts blood vessels, causing redness to quickly disappear.
- Potato. Take a small tuber, peel it, cut into slices. Place two pieces on closed eyelids and lie there for at least 10 minutes. You can grind the potatoes into a pulp and then make a compress from this mass.
- Cucumber. Place a cucumber slice on your eyes. Compresses made from grated pulp will also be useful. This simple but effective remedy will help you quickly get rid of redness. It is also sometimes recommended to simply drop cucumber juice into the eyes.
- Tea. It is very convenient to use tea bags for this purpose. You need to take 2 bags, dip them in warm water and wait a couple of seconds. Then apply to your eyes and lie there for 7 minutes. If you don’t have tea bags, you can simply brew a drink, soak 2 cotton pads in it and apply it to your eyes.
- Honey. In the old days, honey drops helped relieve redness from the eyes. To do this, you need to dilute a drop of the product in 1 tsp. water. Place 2 drops in each eye three times a day until relief occurs.
- Kiwi. Take the fruit, peel it, mash it into a pulp and place it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. Then put the pulp on gauze and apply to the eyes in the form of compresses. The duration of the procedure is 15 minutes.
Knowing how to get rid of red eyes at home, you should also not forget about preventive measures. It is advisable to wear special glasses when working at a computer. It is also necessary to alternate between passive and active activities, take breaks, do exercises, and change the focus of your gaze.
You also need to remember that if the redness persists for a long period of time, and the medications used do not give the expected effect, you should consult a doctor. It is possible that there is an infection in the eye. In this case, only a specialist can tell you how to treat red eyes.
Drops in the eyes for redness and inflammation
There is also the option of using eye drops that relieve inflammation and pain in the eyes.
"Dexona"
These are drops for systemic eye therapy.
Compound:
- the leading elements of the drug are dexamethasone sodium phosphate;
- neomycin sulfate.
Mechanism of action: relieves allergic reactions, inflammation. Helps restore the eyeball after injury.
Price of the drug: from 100 - 150 rubles.
"Taurine"
It is a stimulator of repair and renewal of eye tissue disorders.
Compound:
- taurine;
- nipagin;
- water.
Mechanism of action: normalizes osmoregulation in eye tissues, eliminates electrophysiological disruptions, improves metabolism in cells.
Price of the drug: from 30 - 100 rubles.
Red eyes - how to fix this problem
Medications for red eyes
Medicines give the fastest results. They are easy to use, for the desired result you just need to follow the recommendations in the instructions. But it is worth remembering possible side effects. Among the various medicines to eliminate redness of the eyes, you can especially, they are freely sold in pharmacies. The drug should be dripped into the eyes, then close them for 10 seconds so that the liquid spreads evenly over the surface of the eyeball. The medicine quickly penetrates the capillaries, relieves inflammation and redness, narrowing the blood vessels on the surface of the eye and moisturizing it. However, “artificial tears” give only temporary results; after a couple of hours, the redness returns, because of this, the product is recommended to be used only as a last resort.
Folk remedies for red eyes
Cold compress
The easiest way to get rid of redness is with a cold compress. To do this, you need to put ice cubes wrapped in cotton cloth or a simple compress soaked in cold water on your eyes for 20 minutes. Under the influence of cold, the blood vessels in the eyeball will narrow and the redness will disappear. However, the method gives only a temporary effect; as soon as normal temperature is restored, the vessels will return to their previous size. In addition, during the procedure it is necessary to ensure that the eyes do not get too cold; this can provoke an inflammatory process, which in most cases is quite painful.
Potato compress
A potato compress gives longer-lasting results. It requires fresh chilled potatoes. Keep the potatoes in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, then peel them, grate them on a fine grater, wrap the resulting mass in cheesecloth without squeezing it. Place the compress on your eyes for 10 minutes. Potatoes will remove inflammation, and low temperature will relieve redness. For the best effect, you can make several such compresses during the day. Instead of potatoes, you can use fresh cucumber.
Herbal compress
Also, a herbal compress made from chamomile has a good result, which, in addition to eliminating redness, relieves fatigue and bags under the eyes, and has a rejuvenating effect. Dried chamomile flowers can be bought at any pharmacy. For a compress, add a small amount of boiling water to a teaspoon of chamomile and cook for five minutes over low heat. Next, put the broth in a dark place for an hour, then strain. After the finished infusion, blot the cotton swabs well and place on your eyes for 10 minutes.
By the way, cold and chamomile are an excellent remedy for skin rejuvenation. Read the article: ice cubes with chamomile for facial rejuvenation.
Tea bags
You can also use regular tea bags. To do this, brew them with boiling water, cool slightly and place on your eyes for 10 minutes. For the procedure, you only need black tea. Do not use overly hot sachets to avoid burning the delicate skin of the eyelids or causing redness and inflammation of the eyes.
Life shows that you need to fight not only redness of the eyes, but also take care of their overall health. Eye lotions for fatigue, swelling, and bruises will help you with this.
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ATTENTION:
Traditional medicine recipes are most often used in combination with conventional treatment or as an addition to traditional treatment. Any recipe is good after consultation with a specialist.
Visine for red eyes
"Visine" - eye drops for the prevention of red eyes.
Compound:
- the main component is tetrizoline, which is classified as an α-adrenergic stimulant;
- boric acid;
- d/i water;
- benzalkonium chloride;
- disodium edetate;
- sodium chloride;
- sodium tetraborate.
Mechanism of action: eye inflammation goes away within a minute.
Price of the drug: from 200 - 400 rubles.
Folk remedies for getting rid of red eyes
Many patients do not trust modern medications, preferring to fight their illnesses with their grandmother’s recipes.
Tea compresses
The most popular way to relieve redness of the eyes. For lotions, it is allowed to use black or green tea without any additives. Otherwise, you will not only not eliminate the irritation, but also provoke the development of an allergic reaction. Choose a drink made from large leaves.
Pour boiling water over the tea leaves, cool to a comfortable temperature and moisten cotton pads. Find a comfortable position and place the compress on your closed eyelids. Leave for twenty minutes.
You can also make lotions from tea bags. Brew them and place them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool them quickly. Then put it on your eyes and lie down for a while.
Milk compresses
The procedure can be performed daily, immediately after waking up. Heat a glass of milk in a water bath to a comfortable temperature. Soak the tampons in a warm drink and squeeze out lightly. Milk should drip slightly from the cotton wool. Rub your eyelids with gentle movements, trying not to stretch the skin.
Such lotions not only eliminate redness, but also relieve swelling.
Cucumber compresses
Another popular traditional medicine recipe. Take rose water and fresh vegetable. Cut the cucumber into large slices and place in the liquid. Leave for a while, then apply compresses to closed eyelids. Remove after ten minutes.
Doctors recommend doing lotions every day. For severe redness, rose water can be used as eye drops. |
Potato compresses
They relax the organ of vision and relieve tension from the vascular system. It is better to perform the procedure in the morning, when your eyes are well rested.
Grate a medium sized raw potato and squeeze out the juice. Soak cotton swabs in the resulting liquid and place them on your eyelids. Leave for ten minutes. You can use cut slices, however, in this case the effect appears a little slower.
Chamomile and string
Decoctions of medicinal herbs cope well with burning eyes and eliminate their redness. Prepare a decoction of chamomile, add a little string. Every day before going to bed, soak cotton pads in the resulting liquid and wipe your eyelids.
Chamomile relieves swelling and redness, and the string has an anti-inflammatory effect and cleanses the inside of the visual apparatus from pathogenic microorganisms.
Aloe
This plant is known for its medicinal properties; its juice copes well with vasoconstriction. Many people use it for instillation into the nose. To prepare eye drops, dilute aloe juice with clean water in a ratio of 1:3. Use as needed. Place one drop in each eye. Return to contents
Red eye masks
- Grate a small potato, wrap the mixture in gauze and place on closed eyelids. Apply a little pressure to the compress so that the juice comes out. Leave for fifteen minutes. To remove excess starch, rinse your eyes with warm water;
- Take a green apple and grind it in a blender. Wrap the resulting puree in gauze (it is better to use several layers). Close your eyes tightly; the juice should not penetrate the mucous membrane. Otherwise, you risk irritation or burns;
- If you have Kalanchoe in your home greenhouse, pick a few of its leaves and finely chop them or pass them through a meat grinder. Lubricate your eyelids with the resulting slurry, lie down for fifteen minutes in a relaxed state, rinse off the remaining product;
- Do you have a pumpkin in your supplies? Amazing! Take one hundred grams of vegetables, wash them well and remove any dirt. Grind in a blender, place the mixture on a layer of gauze, and place on the eyelids. Lie down for twenty minutes;
- If, in addition to redness, there is itching and swelling, then try the following mask. Make flour from oatmeal, add a little whey, knead into a thick dough. Wash your hands and make two small cakes, place them on your closed eyelids for forty minutes;
- Parsley and its juice strengthen the walls of blood vessels well and have antiseptic properties. Prepare a paste from the greenfinch and apply it to your closed eyes. Such a simple mask will not only eliminate irritation, but also disinfect the mucous membrane of the eye;
- Mashed potatoes can not only be a refreshment, but can also be used to combat red eyes. Wrap it in gauze and apply it to your eyelids. Warm puree normalizes blood circulation and relieves dryness.
Alternative drops
Any folk remedies must be used very carefully. The mucous membrane of the eye is highly sensitive and is easily damaged or burned. |
Drops prepared at home work well to relieve redness, but you shouldn’t get carried away with them:
- Place the three-year-old aloe leaf in the refrigerator. Finely chop and squeeze the healing juice from the plant. Dilute it with clean water in a concentration of 1:3;
- Dissolve a drop of honey in a tablespoon of boiled water. Mix well and apply to eyelids. You need two drops for each eye. The effect is noticeable after five minutes. If the pain intensifies, immediately rinse your eyes.
Eye ointment for redness and inflammation
The most effective medication in the treatment of eye redness is ointment.
Thanks to the high concentrate of active components, the ointment penetrates deep into the tissues. Since eye inflammation has different causes, ointments must be selected accordingly.
For allergies
Anti-inflammatory ointments at the time of allergies are divided into two types:
- hormonal;
- non-hormonal.
Note! Hormonal ointments are more effective in fighting the disease, but their use is not acceptable for everyone; non-hormonal ointments are practically harmless, but their effect is delayed.
"Hydrocortisone"
This is a drug from the group of glucocorticosteroid hormones.
The main active ingredient is the hormone hydrocortisone.
Mechanism of action: provides pronounced antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, anti-shock therapy.
Price of the drug: from 25 - 40 rubles.
"Actovegin"
This is a non-hormonal medication used for seasonal allergies.
Compound:
- the main substance is a component of the blood of calves;
- white paraffin;
- cholesterol;
- propyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- purified water;
- cetyl alcohol;
- methyl parahydroxybenzoate.
Mechanism of action: triggers metabolism and anabolism of tissue cells, increases blood circulation.
Price of the drug: “Actovegin ointment 5%” 20 g, from 130 - 150 rubles.
For viral infections
In the case of viral diseases, appropriate treatment should be selected.
"Oksolin"
This is a universal drug that fights a wide range of viral bacteria.
Compound:
- the main component is oxolin;
- additionally medical Vaseline.
Mechanism of action: actively reduces eye inflammation, redness, swelling.
Price of the drug: “Oxolinic ointment 3%” 10 g, from 27 to 90 rubles.
"Demazol"
This is an antibacterial anti-inflammatory eye ointment.
Compound:
- methylnitroimidazole;
- olive oil;
- lanolin;
- fragrances;
- special base;
- chamomile extract.
Mechanism of action: actively eliminates all kinds of inflammatory processes in the eyes.
Price of the drug: from 250–350 rubles.
For diseases of the eye membranes
If the eye membranes are inflamed, you need to find the right medicine.
"Korneregel"
This is a universal medication against many eye diseases.
Compound:
- the main components are carbomer and dexpanthenol;
- cetrimide;
- sodium hydroxide;
- disodium edetate;
- water for injections.
Mechanism of action: regenerating and preventive effect.
Price of the drug: “Korneregel 5 g” - 284 rubles, “Korneregel 10 g” - 350 rubles.
Redness of the eye: treatment at home with folk remedies. Recipes
Redness of the eyes caused by infection can be treated using traditional medicine. Such medicines are the most accessible and widespread than scientific or any other medicines.
This treatment uses tinctures, herbal teas, and immunomodulatory agents.
Immunomodulatory drugs
To prepare this medicine you will need:
- lemon – 2 pcs.;
- honey – 2 tbsp;
- grated ginger.
The lemon should be washed and ground in a blender, add ginger root to this mixture and mix. Then you need to leave the mixture for a couple of days. This drug is taken on an empty stomach - 1 tbsp. l.
Nasal rinsing is used for adenoviral infections; for this, you can prepare a saline solution.
To prepare this medicine you will need:
- boiled water – 0.5 l.;
- sea salt – 0.5 tbsp.
Add sea salt (pure) to boiled water and mix. For nasal instillation, use a warm solution - 1 drop/4 r. in a day.
Viburnum tea is an excellent antiviral agent.
To prepare tea you will need:
- viburnum – 50 g;
- honey – 2 tbsp;
- water – 1 tbsp.
Viburnum is mixed with honey until a paste forms and a glass of boiling water is added to it. Tea is drunk hot, freshly brewed, at least three times a day.
Herbal therapy is used in cases of acute infectious diseases, taking into account the fact that there may be an allergic reaction to different herbs.
To prepare sunflower infusion you will need:
- sunflower leaves – 100 g;
- water – 1 l.
The leaves are boiled and taken 0.5 tbsp./2 r. in a day. This decoction is especially effective in treating measles.
To prepare an infusion of licorice and coltsfoot you will need:
- licorice root - 1 tbsp. l.;
- coltsfoot grass - 1 tbsp. l.;
- water – 1 l.
Licorice root and coltsfoot herb should be boiled for several minutes, cooled and diluted with 1/1 boiled water.
To prepare chamomile infusion you will need:
- chamomile herb – 30 g;
- marshmallow herb – 30 g;
- lemon juice – 30 g.
Prepare a decoction of chamomile and marshmallow, add lemon juice to taste before taking it.
Take 1 glass during the day. The decoction has a strong antiviral effect, relieves swelling of the nasal cavity and eyes.
“Influcid” is a six-component antiviral drug of plant origin. Suitable for migraines and low body temperature.
Dosage of the drug for children over 1 year of age – 1 tablet/every 2 hours during acute illness.
"Althea compositum" (in ampoules) is a homeopathic respiratory remedy based on herbs.
Dosage for children over 2 years old – 5 drops/1 tbsp. water.
"Arum Triphyllum" is a homeopathic remedy.
Effect of the drug: improves the regeneration of the epithelium of the nasal mucosa, normalizes the function of cilia, treats infectious diseases of the eyes.
Dosage of the drug: 2 drops in each nasal passage.
"Signatia" is an antiviral herbal organic homeopathic drug.
Mechanism of action: treatment of infections accompanied by severe muconasal discharge, redness of the eyes and lacrimation.
Dosage of the drug: 1 drop/2 r. in a day.
Natural drops:
- Aloe. Aloe drops instantly relieve redness of the eyes. It is recommended to instill 2-3 drops of aloe juice into each eye. 3 drops of aloe juice in each eye. For treatment, a flower older than 2 years is used. Aloe juice is also sold in pharmacies;
- Honey. To prepare honey drops you need 1 tbsp. l. Dilute a drop of honey with chilled boiled water and instill 2 drops of this solution into your eyes. After use, a burning sensation or discomfort may be felt, all these effects will soon go away along with the redness;
- Egg. Boil the chicken egg for 10 minutes or more, then cut it in half and remove the yolk from it. The resulting void is washed and filled with powdered sugar, then placed in the oven for a few minutes. The liquid formed inside the shell is poured into a dark glass vial. The resulting liquid is instilled into the eyes, 1-2 drops per eye.
The preparation of medicinal lotions is also very important:
- Pumpkin. The pumpkin along with the rind is grated, then the mass is wrapped in a gauze handkerchief and applied to the inflamed areas for 20 minutes. The procedure is performed several times with a break of 10 minutes;
- Dill seed. A teaspoon of dill seeds is poured into a glass of boiling water and left to steep for 40 minutes. Then the tincture is filtered and applied to the inflamed areas of the eyes.
Preparing and using compresses will also protect your eyes:
- Teahouses. To quickly eliminate redness from the eyes, use regular tea, or bagged tea. Brew strong tea and cool it. Then soak cotton pads in tea and apply to the eyes for 30 minutes. Also, before applying the lotion, the soaked discs can be cooled for a couple of minutes in the freezer;
- Cucumber. To eliminate redness from the eyes due to conjunctivitis, you will need 1 cucumber/apple/potato/chicken egg white. Peeled fruits are grated on a fine grater, the juice is squeezed out and a little whipped protein is added to it. The resulting mixture is used as a compress, applied to the eyes for 20 minutes. The compress relieves inflammation well, removes redness and lacrimation from the eyes.
- Dairy. 2 tbsp. l. flax seeds pour 6 tbsp. l. natural cow's milk, heated in a water bath, stirring constantly until a thick mass is formed. Then a thin layer of the resulting mass is applied to cotton pads and applied to the eyelids. The duration of the procedure is not limited until the inflammation subsides.
How to relieve red eyes at home?
Keep in mind! The patient can eliminate eye redness on his own at home.
This can be done with the help of over-the-counter medications or by using medicinal herbal decoctions, infusions and food products in masks or compresses.
Pharmacy products
can be purchased in pharmacies without a prescription to eliminate redness:
- Visomitin. An anti-inflammatory drug that has an additional moisturizing effect and soothes irritated conjunctiva. It is often prescribed as an additional synergistic drug that enhances the therapeutic effect of other drops. The dosage is determined individually.
- Visine. A less potent analogue of Visomitin. It is used to moisturize the conjunctiva; during use it does not enter the systemic circulation in quantities that can cause side effects. The drug is used 2-3 times a day, but not longer than four days, as further addiction develops to the drug and it ceases to have a therapeutic effect.
- Alomide. Drops to relieve eye redness due to allergies. Depending on the disease for which the drops are used, the duration of treatment can range from several days to several weeks. Before starting a course of treatment, you should carefully read the information about drug interactions between alomide and other drops in order to avoid negative side effects.
- Octilia. A complex action drug for itching, pain, redness and inflammation of the eyes. Prescribed for problems with blood vessels, for the treatment of infectious ophthalmic pathologies and as a prophylactic agent. The recommended regimen for general use is twice a day for two to seven days.
- Okumetil. Drops used for inflammatory and allergic redness of the eyes. They have an additional anti-edematous effect. To eliminate such symptoms, it is enough to use the product for only three days, 2-3 times a day.
- Naphthyzin . A broad-spectrum drug used in otolaryngology and ophthalmology. When treating red eyes, the drug is used as a vasoconstrictor. Using such drops for more than a week becomes addictive, and the effect of using the product completely disappears. But if you stop burying it, the negative symptoms may intensify. And to eliminate the addictive effect, you will have to do without redness drops at all for the next few weeks.
Traditional medicine
Stay up to date! You can eliminate redness of the eyes with the following folk remedies:
- Pour the same amount of whey into a container with , gently stirring the mixture. The resulting dough is divided into two parts, a flat cake is formed from it and applied 2-4 times a day for forty minutes. A new portion should be prepared every day. Dough used during the day can be stored in the refrigerator between uses.
- Freshly picked chamomile flowers are cleared of petals, the buds are thoroughly washed and chopped (it is better to finely chop them with a knife). A tablespoon of herb is added to 200 grams of boiling water and the product is simmered over low heat for another 15 minutes. The strained broth sits for three hours, after which cotton pads soaked in it can be applied to the eyes three times a day for ten minutes.
- Half a teaspoon of the Maynik bifolia plant is poured with a glass of boiling water for half an hour. The cooled product is filtered, divided into two parts and used to wash the eyes twice a day (in the morning and before bedtime). Every morning a new remedy is prepared.
- The simplest, most common and harmless way is to apply used tea bags to your eyes. You can use both black and green tea. You can apply them any number of times a day, but each procedure should take no more than five minutes.
- Several small tubers of peeled raw potatoes are grated on a fine grater , after washing them first. The resulting mass is evenly distributed between 3-4 layers of gauze and such compresses are applied up to three times a day for 20 minutes.
- Thoroughly washed fresh parsley root is ground in a juicer . To obtain a sufficient amount of juice, you need to take a bunch of grass. Rolled pieces of gauze or cotton pads are soaked in the resulting juice. Such compresses are applied for 10 minutes before bedtime. A total of 5 to 10 procedures are required.
- Two circles 5-7 millimeters thick are cut from a large fresh cucumber and applied to closed eyelids 3-4 times a day for 5 minutes . An alternative option is to grate the whole cucumber and use it once a day for 15 minutes as a compress, similar to raw potatoes.
What to do if the eye is red because a blood vessel has burst
If blood vessels burst, this indicates a health problem. To eliminate this problem, it is necessary to eliminate the root cause of the hemorrhage.
If the cause of a burst vessel is overwork, it is necessary to reduce eye strain. In this case, treatment will not be needed.
The rate of disappearance of hemorrhage in each case is individual; it can last 3-5 days, or maybe from 2 to 3 weeks.
How to treat red eyes caused by a burst blood vessel:
- Ascorbic acid - will accelerate resorption and strengthen blood vessels;
- "Ascorutin" - restores and strengthens the walls of blood vessels;