Your eyes get red when they’re irritated by dust or pollutants. Allergies could also be the reason behind the redness and discomfort. In these cases, your eyes recover quickly without long-term complications. However, if the redness refuses to go away, it may indicate a medical condition.
Keep reading to learn more.
Bloodshot Eyes: The Most Common Causes
Redness occurs when the small blood vessels beneath the eye’s surface become inflamed or enlarged.
There are many causes of blood vessel inflammation, including allergies, disease, frequent crying, and dryness. The discoloration usually disappears after a few days. However, in some cases, it’s a signal that the body is fighting glaucoma or uveitis.
The Link Between Bloodshot Eyes and Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a term that denotes a range of eye conditions that degrade the optic nerve, which is responsible for optimal eye health. The optic nerve damage usually occurs when fluid builds up in one part of the eye, causing increased pressure.
Since the symptoms can be mild, most people don’t associate bloodshot eyes with glaucoma. If you’ve noticed redness and discomfort, contact your care provider immediately to schedule an appointment.
Although there’s no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis can help find the optimal treatment plan and alleviate its symptoms. When unaddressed, glaucoma can lead to complete vision loss.
Eye Redness and Uveitis
Redness could also be a symptom of uveitis, another kind of eye inflammation. It’s believed that autoimmune diseases and infections cause the condition. When untreated, uveitis results in cataracts, nerve damage, and retina scarring. Sometimes, it causes permanent blindness.
Take Care of Your Eyes
Although there are many causes of bloodshot eyes, it’s best to see a professional who will diagnose the issue and prevent health complications.
