Eye Redness: Causes and Solutions for Healthy Vision

Q: Eye Redness: Causes and Solutions for Healthy Vision

Hello Mr. <br>Lin： The redness in your eyes is likely not related to your blood pressure; it is primarily due to irritation causing the blood vessels to dilate, which is a normal phenomenon. <br>Once the irritation is alleviated, the redness will naturally subside. <br>When remov

Redness around the sclera, with bloodshot eyes?

Dear Dr.
Gao,
Hello! I apologize for bothering you again! I'm sorry...
Previously, I inquired about the redness in my eyes.
Since the pandemic, I haven't been wearing contact lenses, and there has been significant improvement.
From the end of March to May, the random redness has decreased.
However, I would like to ask about my comprehensive eye examination in November 2020, which showed no issues; my retina was healthy.
The doctor only mentioned that my eyes were slightly dry.
In March 2021, I also visited a doctor for conjunctivitis and corneal abrasion, which were treated successfully.
However, I am still concerned about the redness in my eyes, particularly the area around the sclera.
I haven't worn contact lenses for a long time, but yesterday, due to work, I wore my high-oxygen daily disposable lenses from Acuvue for just one hour.
Initially, there was no redness, but after wearing them for an hour and removing them, I noticed a pinkish area on the upper part of my right eye near the pupil around 10 PM while looking at the computer.
I thought I shouldn't rely too much on artificial tears, so I rested my eyes for 5-10 minutes, and they returned to normal.
Today, I needed to wear contact lenses for 30 minutes for work.
While wearing them, there was no redness, but when I removed them, I might have pulled too hard, and suddenly the inner part of my right eye became red.
After resting for 5-10 minutes, it returned to normal again.
I'm unsure what to do; I really want to wear contact lenses, but after last year and this year, I have some reservations...
I'm constantly worried about my eyes turning red, which puts me in a tense state, and I also feel tension in my head.
I have been overweight for many years, and my blood pressure has been relatively high.
Could my blood pressure be affecting my intraocular pressure and causing the redness in my eyes? Would losing weight and lowering my blood pressure help alleviate the redness in my eyes? Thank you, Dr.
Gao.
I appreciate your help!

Mr. Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/25

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Lin: The redness in your eyes is likely not related to your blood pressure; it is primarily due to irritation causing the blood vessels to dilate, which is a normal phenomenon.
Once the irritation is alleviated, the redness will naturally subside.
When removing contact lenses, be careful not to touch the cornea or conjunctiva with your fingers; just grasp the part of the contact lens itself to minimize irritation and prevent redness.
This type of redness is not a major concern and should fade after a short rest.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards, Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2021/06/25

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding eye redness and the potential impact of your lifestyle on your eye health. It's understandable to feel anxious about these symptoms, especially when they affect your daily life and comfort. Let's delve into the possible causes of your eye redness and discuss some solutions that may help you maintain healthy vision.

Eye redness can be attributed to several factors, including environmental irritants, underlying health conditions, and the use of contact lenses. In your case, the redness you experience, particularly around the cornea, may be related to several issues:
1. Contact Lens Use: While silicone hydrogel lenses are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, improper use can still lead to irritation. Factors such as wearing them for extended periods, not cleaning them properly, or even the fit of the lens can contribute to redness. It’s essential to follow the recommended wearing schedule and ensure that your lenses are clean and well-fitted.

2. Dry Eyes: You mentioned having dry eyes, which can exacerbate redness. When your eyes are dry, they can become irritated, leading to increased blood flow to the surface of the eye, resulting in redness. Using artificial tears can help alleviate this dryness, but it’s crucial to choose preservative-free options if you plan to use them frequently.

3. Environmental Factors: Exposure to dust, smoke, or allergens can cause temporary redness. If you notice that your eyes become red in certain environments, it may be worth considering protective eyewear or avoiding those triggers when possible.

4. Health Conditions: Conditions such as hypertension can indeed have an indirect effect on eye health. Elevated blood pressure can lead to changes in the blood vessels in the eyes, potentially causing redness. Additionally, stress and anxiety can contribute to muscle tension around the eyes, which may exacerbate the perception of redness or discomfort.

5. Fatigue and Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time or reading can lead to eye strain, which often manifests as redness and discomfort. Remember to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help reduce eye strain and improve comfort.

Regarding your concerns about weight and blood pressure, losing weight and managing hypertension can have positive effects on your overall health, including eye health. While weight loss may not directly resolve eye redness, it can lead to lower blood pressure, which may reduce the strain on your eyes and improve circulation.

In conclusion, while your eye redness may not indicate a serious underlying condition, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms and maintain a healthy lifestyle. If the redness persists or worsens, or if you experience any pain, vision changes, or other concerning symptoms, I recommend consulting with an eye care professional for a thorough examination. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Take care of your eyes, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or concerns.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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