You wake up in the morning ready to start your day, only to discover that your eyes are bloodshot. While this might not be surprising after a late night or environmental irritant exposure, bloodshot eyes can also signal an underlying eye problem.

Why Do I Have Bloodshot Eyes?

When blood rushes to the front of the eye, the tiny red blood vessels on the white of the eye dilate and become visible, making the eyes appear red and irritated. Common causes include dry eyes, irritants such as smoke or pollen, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, and spending too much time in front of a computer.

Lifestyle-related redness may disappear on its own, or you can try over-the-counter eye drops or lifestyle changes like getting more sleep, reducing alcohol intake, and limiting screen time.

Medical Conditions That Can Cause Bloodshot Eyes

Conjunctivitis

Pink eye is an infection of the conjunctiva that comes in bacterial and viral forms. Bacterial conjunctivitis causes irritated eyes, swollen eyelids, discharge, and crusty eyelids. Viral conjunctivitis may cause cold or flu-like symptoms, runny nose, fever, and itchy eyes. If you or your child are experiencing these symptoms, schedule a prompt appointment with an eye doctor, who can diagnose the type and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Chronically bloodshot eyes may indicate dry eye syndrome (DES), caused by blocked meibomian glands in the eyelids that normally secrete oil to prevent tear evaporation. Signs include dry, irritated eyes, burning or stinging, discharge, light sensitivity, a feeling something is stuck in the eye, blurred vision, and watery eyes.

Uveitis

If bloodshot eyes are accompanied by blurred vision, floaters, or eye pain, you may have uveitis, an eye inflammation that can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and vision loss if left untreated.

Eye Injury

Even a minor eye injury can cause a bright red blotch on the white of the eye. Any time you notice excessive blood on the eye following an injury, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to assess the health of your eye.

Glaucoma

In rare cases, bloodshot eyes may signal glaucoma, especially if accompanied by eye pressure that suddenly rises. If you have bloodshot eyes and risk factors for glaucoma (family history, age 60+, diabetes, high blood pressure), schedule an appointment immediately.

Any time you notice bloodshot eyes or blood on the front of the eye, don't wait. Schedule your eye exam with Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio today. Call (937) 228-2020.