Eye Redness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Bloodshot eyes

Hello Doctor, I have floaters and my myopia is about -5.00 in both eyes.
I used to wear contact lenses for a long time, but I haven't worn them as frequently for about a year.
My eyes used to not be red, but over the past year, I've noticed a lot of blood vessels, especially in my left eye.
I previously experienced discomfort, but after examinations, I was told it was allergic conjunctivitis.
I've tried many different eye drops and visited various clinics and hospitals, but the redness hasn't improved.
I rarely feel discomfort, but my eyes are just red and getting redder.
A few months ago, there were only three or four long blood vessels emerging from near my nose.
When looking straight ahead, I could only see a little; I had to look sideways to see the blood vessels.
However, the number of blood vessels has gradually increased, and now my entire eye is very red.
I rarely feel anything, just a sensation near my nose and some itching of the eyelashes, but despite using so many eye drops, there has been no improvement.
Once, after using eye drops, the foreign body sensation in my left eye worsened, and when I looked in the mirror, I saw that it was completely red, especially with two prominent red blood vessels.
After that, I stopped using the eye drops.
Two weeks after stopping, the condition feels exactly the same, but my eyes are still red.
I'm very worried because this is not how my eyes used to be.
Is there a hidden disease? Recently, I've also had a sensation like a bubble bursting in my eye.
I looked it up online and found that it could be retinal detachment.
Do I need to go to a major hospital for an examination, or can I go to a regular clinic? Thank you, Doctor.

ki, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/01

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, the bubbles are likely conjunctival edema and definitely not retinal detachment.
You can go to a general clinic for an examination.
There's no need to worry.

Reply Date: 2021/10/01

More Info

Understanding eye redness can be quite complex, as it can stem from various causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. In your case, it seems you have been experiencing persistent redness in your left eye, accompanied by symptoms such as a feeling of something in your eye, itching, and the presence of blood vessels. Given your history of myopia and the use of contact lenses, it’s essential to consider several factors that might contribute to your symptoms.

Firstly, the redness you are experiencing could be a result of chronic conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the conjunctiva, often caused by allergies, irritants, or infections. Allergic conjunctivitis can lead to redness, itching, and tearing, and it often responds poorly to standard eye drops if the underlying allergen is not identified and avoided. Since you mentioned that you have tried multiple eye drops without improvement, it may be beneficial to consult with an allergist or an ophthalmologist who specializes in ocular allergies.

Another possibility is that the redness is due to dry eye syndrome, which can be exacerbated by prolonged contact lens wear. When the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, it can lead to irritation and redness. Symptoms of dry eyes can include a gritty sensation, burning, and redness. If this is the case, using preservative-free artificial tears regularly, especially when using screens or in dry environments, may help alleviate your symptoms.

You also mentioned a sensation of a "bubble bursting" in your eye, which raises concern for more serious conditions such as retinal detachment or vitreous detachment. While these conditions are less common, they can lead to significant vision problems if not addressed promptly. Symptoms of retinal detachment can include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a shadow over your vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, preferably at a hospital with an ophthalmology department.

Given that your symptoms have persisted and worsened over time, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive eye examination from a qualified ophthalmologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a slit-lamp examination, to assess the health of your conjunctiva, cornea, and retina. If necessary, they may also conduct imaging tests to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while eye redness can often be attributed to benign causes such as allergies or dry eyes, your persistent symptoms warrant further investigation to rule out more serious conditions. It is essential to consult with an eye care professional who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on a comprehensive assessment of your eye health. Remember, early intervention is key in preventing potential complications, especially when it comes to your vision.

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