Pink eye, red eye, or conjunctivitis, is a pretty common affliction that can strike people of all ages. In fact, it's so common that many people might not even realize they have it. Pink eye can be caused by a variety of things- from allergies and infections to contact lenses and UV light. Here we'll take a deep look at the different causes of red eye, as well as some tips on how to treat it. So if you're suffering from red eye symptoms, read on!
Pink eye is a serious condition that can affect both humans and animals. It occurs when the blood vessels in the eye become dilated and fill with blood. This can happen for various reasons, including allergies, fatigue, or even high altitude. Pink eye usually isn't painful, but it can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
Allergies
The whites of our eyes, or sclera, are usually white. But sometimes they can turn red due to inflammation or increase in the small blood vessels that are just under the surface of the sclera. This is called allergic conjunctivitis, and it's a very common condition that is triggered by allergies to pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or other irritants. Treatment typically involves using over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines to lessen the symptoms. In severe cases, prescription eye drops may be necessary.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Another common cause of red eyes is dry eye syndrome. This occurs when the eyes do not produce ample tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can be caused by certain medications, environmental factors such as wind and smoke, and even staring at a computer screen for too long. Dry eye syndrome can be treated with artificial tears, eye drops, or ointments.
Glaucoma
The most usual symptom of glaucoma is increased pressure in the eye. However, this condition can also cause redness in the eye. In fact, many people with glaucoma experience redness as their first symptom. This is because the increased pressure in the eye can cause blood vessels to break, resulting in inflammation and redness. If you experience sudden redness in your eye, it is important to see an eye doctor right away. While not all cases of red eye are caused by glaucoma, this symptom can be a sign of this serious condition. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing vision loss from glaucoma.
Iritis
Iritis, also called anterior uveitis, is a condition that results when the iris becomes inflamed. The iris is the colored part of the eye that helps to control how much light enters the eye. Iritis can be caused by a number of different things, including infections, injuries, and autoimmune disorders. Symptoms of iritis include pain, redness, and sensitivity to light. Treatment for iritis typically includes the use of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary. Iritis is a serious condition that should be treated by a qualified medical professional. If you think you may have iritis, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Episcleritis
Episcleritis is a medical condition that results in redness of the eye. The redness is caused by inflammation of the episclera, which is the outermost layer of the white part of the eye. Episcleritis is a benign condition that typically resolves on its own within a few days. However, some people may experience recurrent episodes of episcleritis. In rare cases, episcleritis can be associated with more serious underlying conditions, such as autoimmune disorders. Treatment for episcleritis typically involves the use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. However, more severe cases may require prescription medications or steroid injections. Episcleritis is a relatively common condition that does not typically cause any long-term damage to the eye.
References
Frings, A., Geerling, G., & Schargus, M. (2017). Red Eye: A Guide for Non-specialists. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2017.0302
Cronau H;Kankanala RR;Mauger T. (2012). Diagnosis and management of red eye in primary care. American Family Physician, 81(2). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20082509/
Frings, A., Geerling, G., & Schargus, M. (2017). Red Eye: A Guide for Non-specialists. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2017.0302