How to Soothe Red Eyes

Have you ever wondered how the term “red eye flight” came about?

It refers to flights that occur during the night. Passengers would often arrive at their destination with red eyes, usually due to a combination of fatigue and the dry atmosphere of the aircraft cabin.

Eye redness occurs when the blood vessels on the eye’s surface expand or dilate. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as: 

• Excessive tearing and watering;
• Crusty and flaky eyelashes;
• Swollen, puffy eyelids;
• Sticky discharge from the eyes;
• Itching or burning sensation in the eyes;
• Reduced or blurry vision;
• Increased sensitivity to light.

Whilst irritating and uncomfortable, red eyes are usually short-lived and easily treated.

Red Eye Alert: If you experience a severe headache or eye pain, a feeling of pressure in the eye, or notice a halo effect when looking at lights, please book an appointment as soon as possible as these could indicate a more serious issue.

Soothe Red Eyes by Starting with the Cause

If you are wondering how to soothe red eyes, the type of treatment depends very much on the cause.

A foreign object in the eye

A foreign body in the eye, such as an eyelash or particles of dust or sand, may cause sore, red eyes. In such cases, we recommend flushing the affected eye with water or a saline solution to try and dislodge the object. Avoid rubbing your eyes to minimise scratches or abrasions; for persistent irritation, please see your local optometrist.

Dry eye syndrome

Dry eye has become much more common in recent years, mainly due to prolonged use of screens such as mobile phones, computers and TV. Try soaking a face washer in warm water then wringing it out, before placing it over the eyes for 10 minutes as this helps increase blood flow and oil production; or you may find relief by using lubricating eye drops.

For persistent cases of dry eye, there are options such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy or Blephasteam treatment, available at selected optometrists, like our eye care clinic at Alexandra Hills Shopping Centre in Brisbane.

Blepharitis

This is an inflammation of the eyelids which results in red eyes, flaking and crustiness and while there are several possible causes, the current fashion for lash extensions has made it more common. Take care of your eyelids by:

• Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water, before mixing warm water with a gentle cleanser such as Blephadex foam or wipes.
• Dip a clean cloth or cotton bud in the warm cleanser and water mixture, then press against your closed eyelid for a few minutes to loosen crusts.
• Rinse your eye with clean water; then use a fresh cloth or cotton bud to clean the other eye.
• Visit your optometrist if symptoms persist, to discuss other possible treatments, such as the use of Blephasteam (which bathes the eyes in moisture) or Blephex (where an optometrist uses a special tool to gently clean and exfoliate affected areas).

Conjunctivitis

This highly contagious condition – commonly known as ‘pink eye’ – can occur in one or both eyes.

It is an inflammation of the ‘conjunctiva’ – the clear, thin membrane covering the front surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids, and may be caused by bacteria, a virus, or allergies.

Bacterial conjunctivitis should be treated with a prescription antibiotic ointment; viral and allergic conjunctivitis usually respond well to regular cool compresses, or soothing eye drops. Seek out advice from your local optometrist to determine the type of conjunctivitis and the best method of treatment for your case.

Haemorrhage in the eye

If you experience high blood pressure and are on blood thinners, you are at increased risk of experiencing a haemorrhage in the eye. This may occur after a minor bump, coughing or sneezing. While it usually improves within two weeks with no treatment, please see your eye care professional or GP if it persists or is painful.

Want to Soothe Red Eyes: See your Optometrist

Determining the reason for your symptoms is important to ascertain the appropriate treatment, so reach out to your local optometrist if you need help with soothing red, sore eyes. If you live or work in the Redlands, contact our friendly team at Aphrodite Livanes Eyecare Plus for an appointment today.