Many people have bloodshot eyes from staying up too late, a tell-tale signs of needing more sleep. However, some people have bloodshot eyes from an eye condition that may need evaluation from an eye doctor. Understanding the causes of bloodshot eyes may help determine the cause and prevent any damage to the eye.
Allergies
The white of the eye may turn red in response to an allergic reaction. Seasonal allergies, along with reactions to pets or pollutants, commonly cause eye redness, and this condition may improve with the use of over-the-counter or prescription oral allergy medications, says the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Some allergy sufferers require an allergy eye drop. Doctors may prescribe an eye drop or recommend an over-the-counter drop found at most drug stores. In addition to seasonal allergies, the eye's surface may appear red and bloodshot in response to a chemical or foreign body in the eye.
Dry Eye
Some people have glands that do not produce enough tears to coat the eye's surface, or, if tear production is normal, the glands may not produce high quality tears. In either case, the surface of the eye turns dry, causing a bloodshot appearance. The eyes may also feel scratchy and irritated, and sufferers may feel a burning sensation across the eyes. Doctors will usually recommend artificial tears to improve moisture content in the eye, as well as reduce irritation. In severe cases, the doctor may prescribe eye drops to increase tear production, or discuss a minor procedure, called punctual plugs, that will block the tear ducts and encourage the tears to stay in the eye, says MayoClinic.com.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is an eye infection, often referred to as "pink eye." In response to this condition, the eyes turn red. The eyes will likely itch and ache slightly. Slight cases of conjunctivitis may disappear within a few days without treatment. However, most people require a prescription eye drop. Conjunctivitis can easily spread from one person to another, so sufferers should frequently wash their hands, warns the American Optometric Association.
