People might be very scared after seeing themselves in the mirror with red-blood eyes. Before you jump to any conclusion it is best to know the facts about this condition, its causes and treatment.
Red-blood Eyes Facts
So, you probably already know, but red blood color of the eyes is also known as bloodshot eyes. The problem appears when the blood vessels of the eye, more precisely the part of the eye known as sclera, become very large and congested with some blood. The cause of this appearance is usually lack of oxygen in the cornea or some tissue that cover the eyes.
Probable Causes of Bloodshot Eyes
Different things may provoke this condition and the most likely explanations are: eyestrain, allergies, fatigue or some trauma to the eye or the head. Abuse of alcohol, as well as some foreign bodies in the conjunctiva or the cornea of the eye is also common cause of red-blood eyes.
Apart from these problems, sometimes bloodshot eyes may be the result of improper diet. People whose diet lacks vitamins B2 (riboflavin) or B6 (pyridoxine) or some amino acids, such as: lysine, phenylalanine or histidine could also wake up with red-blood eyes.
Other Causes
Less severe causes of bloodshot eyes may also be some: allergies, hay fever, common cold, flu or even menstruation in some women. However, red-blood eyes may be related to certain eye conditions, like: cornea infections or ulcers, corneal abrasion, inflammation of the uvea of the eye (uveitis), inflammation of the iris (iritis), conjunctivitis or inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis). Some patients may experience bloodshot eyes because of diabetes, stress, anxiety, mumps, kidney failure or because of certain medications they use. How It Looks and What’s the Treatment?
As mentioned, bloodshot eyes usually appear as bloody-red in color and they may itch, twitch or cause some pain. Patients may also experience headache or neck pain due to this problem, or formation of mucus and pus. Sometimes, people have reported swelling of the hands and feet, stomach aches or bloating. Sniffing, sneezing and coughing may also be associated with red-blood eyes.
Doctors may decide not to treat bloodshot eyes, if the cause of the problem is mild. More severe cases usually need certain treatment. Just make sure to visit your doctor, especially if you have serious eye problems.
Home Remedies
Some home remedies were found to be very useful for the treatment of red-blood eyes. Close your eyelids and splash some cold water on them and repeat the process several times every day. Cold skim milk, applied with cotton balls could also be great for this problem, or you can try some cold compresses on the eyelids.
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