He redness in the eyes is a condition that can be a sign of a wide range of eye conditionssome more delicate than others. But, in general, they are a symptom of some type of irritation, which causes discomfort that many seek to alleviate.
Redness of the eyes It is usually related to conjunctivitis, that is, inflammation of the eye envelopes, but, in reality, this is just one of many causes of this symptom, as explained by ophthalmologist and retinologist, Orlando Ustáriz.
According to the specialist, red eyes are a disorder in which the white part (called sclera) takes on that color due to rupture or dilation of blood vessels, giving an appearance that can vary in intensity and size.
Ustáriz assures that can affect one or both eyes and, although it is almost always accompanied by other symptoms, there may be red eyes without being accompanied by other discomfort.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, red eyes They may be accompanied by irritation, pain, dryness, discharge, sensitivity to light and blurred vision. Ustáriz adds that inflammation and even a sensation of having the eyes stuck together may occur.
Redness of the eyes can be caused by many factors, and among the most common – says Ustáriz – There are inflammations of the conjunctiva, allergies, infections, foreign bodies, irritations from lenses, injuries to blood vessels, trauma and glaucoma.
However, the American Academy explains that It is very important to take into account some environmental conditions that promote redness and must be ruled out before making a diagnosis. Among them are air pollution, smoke from fire or cigarettes, dry air promoted by the weather or ventilation systems; dust, diluted solvents in the air, exposure to chemicals such as chlorine from swimming pools or prolonged sunlight, lack of sleep, and alcohol and marijuana use.
Among the serious eye disorders that can cause redness are infections, trauma, ulcers, uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, called uvea) or glaucoma (increased eye pressure). “These diagnoses should always be carried out by a professional,” says the specialist.
Since it has so many causes, some of them serious, eye redness must be treated after identifying its origin, which requires evaluation by a doctor. Ustáriz insists that The use or application of drugs or drops that are not recommended by a specialist should be avoided, especially those that can be obtained without a formula.
”The use of drops to whiten the conjunctiva can be counterproductive because they act by closing the blood vessels that make the eyes look whiter, But when the effect ends, the redness is generally more serious,” warns Ustáriz.
It also recommends that while visiting the professional, avoid the use of contact lensesartificial tears without formula, rubbing hands or scratching without proper hygiene, in addition to the application of homemade elements such as plasters, tea bags or cloths, “because not knowing the cause can make the problem worse,” the expert points out.
Conjunctivitis
It is the inflammation of the conjunctiva (external envelope of the eye), and according to Ustáriz it always occurs with redness of the eyes and discharge, as well as itching and sensation of a foreign body. It can affect only one eye or become bilateral. Viruses, bacteria or fungi can be the causes, and specific treatment requires identification of the germ. Application of clean cold water cloths and local measures may be recommended during treatment.
Keratitis
It is the inflammation of the cornea (the most anterior part of the conjunctiva that covers the iris). According to the American Academy, it can be accompanied by pain, tearing and increased sensitivity to light. Ustáriz states that in some cases blurred vision may appear and its causes may be trauma, ulcers or infections. Your treatment should always be recommended by your doctor.
1. Cold compresses
This remedy does not help cure the problem, but relieves symptoms such as irritation or swelling. To do this, dip a clean towel or cloth in ice water and place it over your eyes for five minutes.
You can also use ice and wrap it in a cloth. You should make sure that the towel is thick enough so that the cold does not hurt you. It is proven that The cold helps reduce swelling and itching in this and other discomforts.
2. Tea bags
Tea has calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent remedy to relieve the symptoms of these types of conditions. It is usually used particularly on the eyes, in cases such as dark circles, styes or conjunctivitis. due to its flavonoid and tannin content.
To apply this remedy, you must first make sure that the bags are made from a tea plant and not another aromatic herb. Then you have to put the bags in hot water and let them cool. When they are at a temperature that does not hurt the eyelids, you should put it on them for 10 or 15 minutes.
One can do this procedure 2 to 3 times a day.
TIME (GDA)