Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Redness in eyes

Redness in the eyes occurs when the tiny blood vessels on the surface of the eye become enlarged or inflamed, giving the eye a red or pink appearance. It can be caused by various factors, such as irritation, dryness, allergies, or infections. While redness in the eyes is often harmless, it can be a sign of an underlying issue that requires attention. Understanding the cause of your eye redness can help you take the right steps to treat it and keep your eyes healthy.

Common symptoms that accompany redness in the eyes include:

• A noticeable redness or pinkish tint in one or both eyes
• Irritation or a gritty feeling in the eyes
• Watery eyes or discharge
• Itching or burning sensations
• Sensitivity to light

Redness in the eyes can be caused by:

• Dry eyes, where insufficient lubrication causes irritation and redness
• Allergies, leading to inflammation and redness in the eyes
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye), an infection or inflammation of the eye's lining
• Eye strain, from prolonged screen time or lack of sleep
• Injury or trauma to the eye, causing redness and swelling
• Contact lens use, particularly if lenses are worn for extended periods or not cleaned properly

Risk factors that can contribute to eye redness include:

• Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or certain chemicals
• Prolonged screen time, leading to eye strain
• Uncorrected refractive errors that cause eye fatigue
• Poor hygiene when handling contact lenses
• Environmental irritants, such as smoke, pollution, or dry air

Diagnosing the cause of redness in the eyes typically involves:

• A comprehensive eye exam to check for irritation, infection, or injury
• Visual tests to assess the health of the eye and check for refractive errors
• Tear tests to measure the level of moisture in the eye if dry eyes are suspected
• Culture or swab tests to rule out infections like conjunctivitis

Treatment for redness in the eyes depends on the cause:

• Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops for dry eyes
• Antihistamines or allergy medications to reduce inflammation from allergies
• Antibiotics or antivirals for eye infections, like conjunctivitis
• Cold compresses to reduce swelling and irritation
• Resting your eyes and using proper lighting to reduce strain

Medications like antihistamines for allergies or antibiotic eye drops for infections can help alleviate redness. NiHowdy helps you save on these prescriptions, making it easier to manage eye health and reduce costs.

To prevent eye redness, you can:

• Take regular breaks from screens (the 20-20-20 rule is effective)
• Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can worsen irritation
• Practice proper hygiene when handling contact lenses
• Use artificial tears to keep eyes moisturized in dry or smoky environments
• Wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from irritants

If you experience mild redness in your eyes, you can try:

• Using lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness
• Applying a cold compress to soothe irritated eyes
• Avoiding allergens like pollen or dust, or using air purifiers
• Ensuring good sleep hygiene to avoid eye strain from lack of rest

If eye redness is accompanied by:

• Pain, vision changes, or sensitivity to light
• A yellow or green discharge
• Severe swelling or a feeling of something stuck in the eye
• No improvement with over-the-counter treatments

NiHowdy can help you save on medications like antihistamine eye drops or antibiotics for infections. With Bitcoin rebates, you can afford the care you need to treat redness in the eyes, helping you stay on track with your eye health.

David had been struggling with redness in his eyes due to seasonal allergies. By using prescribed antihistamine eye drops, his symptoms improved significantly. Thanks to NiHowdy's savings on his prescription costs, David could afford the treatment he needed without stressing about expenses, leading to clearer and more comfortable eyes.