If your eye looks pink or feels gritty, you’re probably dealing with eye redness. It’s a common complaint and usually nothing scary, but it can be uncomfortable. Below we break down the most likely reasons, simple steps you can take at home, and the warning signs that mean you should talk to a doctor.
Dry eye is a top culprit. When your tears evaporate too fast, the surface of the eye gets irritated and turns red. This often happens after long screen time, in windy weather, or in air‑conditioned rooms.
Allergies are another frequent cause. Pollen, pet dander, or dust can trigger the release of histamine in the eyes, leading to itching, tearing, and redness. If you notice a runny nose or sneezing along with the red eye, allergies are probably to blame.
Infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) make the eye look bright red and produce a sticky discharge. Bacterial pink eye often brings a yellowish crust in the morning, while viral pink eye may cause watery discharge and feel like a cold.
Contact lens wearers can develop red eyes from a lens that is dirty, dried out, or doesn’t fit well. Even a small scratch from a lens can cause redness and a feeling of something in the eye.
Other triggers include smoke, chemical fumes, or a foreign object like an eyelash. These irritants cause the tiny blood vessels on the white of the eye to expand, giving that classic red look.
Start with a gentle rinse. Use sterile saline or clean water to flush out any dust or tiny particles. Avoid rubbing the eye – that can make the irritation worse.
If dryness seems to be the issue, apply over‑the‑counter artificial tears. Use them a few times a day, especially before long screen sessions or before bed.
For allergies, eye drops that contain antihistamine can calm the redness and itching. You’ll find these at most pharmacies; just follow the label directions.
When an infection is suspected, keep the eye clean. Warm compresses can help loosen crusts from bacterial pink eye. Do NOT share towels or pillowcases until the redness clears.
Contact lens wearers should remove lenses, clean them with the proper solution, and give the eyes a break for a day or two. If the redness persists after a short break, see an eye professional.
General prevention tips: take regular breaks from screens (the 20‑20‑20 rule works well – every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), keep humidity up in dry rooms, and wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from wind and UV light.
Know when to seek help. If you experience sudden vision loss, intense pain, a large white spot on the eye, or if the redness doesn’t improve after a few days of home care, make an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. These could be signs of a more serious condition that needs prescription treatment.
Eye redness is usually manageable with simple steps, but staying aware of the cause and responding early can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. Keep this guide handy next time your eyes turn pink – you’ll know exactly what to do.
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