Redness-Relieving Eye Drops

Introduction

One frequently observed condition is redness of the sclera, the white area of the eye, which can happen for a number of causes. Although the redness typically fades away on its own, there are times when it needs to be addressed.

What Is Called Red Eye?

Redness of the eye is a very common problem of the eye, described as red eyes or bloodshot eyes. The red eye appears red and irritated. The redness of the eyes occurs due to inflammation of the tiny blood vessels under the eye surface. The redness can affect either one or both eyes. The redness can develop suddenly or over time. The blood vessels of the eye often dilate in response to an injury or irritation of the eye. The increase in blood flow occurs as a mechanism to repair the injured part of the eye.

What Are the Causes of the Red Eye?

• Tired eyes.

• Allergic reactions.

• Dry eyes.

• Irritation from contact lenses.

• Glaucoma.

• Pink eye or conjunctivitis.

How Does the Redness Relieving Eye Drops Work?

• Redness-relieving eye drops commonly contain two types of active ingredients - Tetrahydrozoline and Naphazoline, which are decongestants in the eye drops.

• Both these drugs come under the category of sympathomimetic drugs. These drugs work by vasoconstriction or artificially reducing the blood flow. Medication aims to temporarily reduce the swelling of tiny blood vessels in the eye. When the inflammation is reduced, the red hue in the eye disappears.

• Another type of eye drop made from a non-decongestant medicine also works by reducing the swelling of the eye's blood vessels.

• Another group of eye drops contains lubricants that help prevent dryness and irritation of the eye.

What Are the Benefits of Redness-Relieving Eye Drops?

• It helps with the lubrication of the eye and prevents further eye damage.

• Helps in relieving dryness, and irritation and making the eyes comfortable.

• The artificial tears promote surface healing, reducing the feeling of surface scratches.

• Flushing out any contaminating or injurious particles.

How to Properly Use Eye Drops?

• Always use the drops as prescribed by the doctor.

• Use the correct amount of medicine, not in larger or smaller amounts than prescribed.

• Do not use the medication for too long.

• Wash hands before using eye drops.

• Tilt the head slightly to the back and pull down the lower lid and apply the drops with a dropper.

• Close the eyes and gently press the finger to the inside corner of the eye for about one minute. This helps prevent the liquid from draining into the tear duct.

• Do not touch the tip of the dropper or place it in the eye. This is done to prevent contamination of the doppler and can prevent infections.

• Stop using the drops, if the color of the eye drops appears to have changed.

• Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Avoid freezing.

• Keep the cap closed tightly when not in use.

What Are the Risks Associated With Redness-Relieving Eye Drops?

• Eye drops with decongestants often make the eye redder than before and called rebound redness. The redness of the eye worsens over time and the use of such eye drops should be stopped immediately.

• A preservative-free lubricating eye drop is the best alternative.

• The duration of usage is another factor to consider. The redness-relieving eye drops should be used only for a short time. Long-term use is not required. Long use of eye drops may slow down the natural mechanism of recovering from an injury. The increased use of eye drops can make the blood vessels of the eye more dilated than usual, called the rebound hyperemia effect. The drops should be used only for two days.

• The use of redness-relieving eye drops while using contact lenses is even worse. The contact lens holds the drug and keeps it in contact with the eye surface for a longer time, and potentially increases vasoconstriction.

• The avascular cornea gets its nutrition from the blood vessels of the conjunctiva, and from the atmosphere by diffusion. The relief drops combined with the use of contact lenses can reduce the oxygen supply to the cornea. This can lead to corneal infections.

• Use of decongestant drops should be avoided in narrow-angle glaucoma patients. This can increase the risk of developing angle closure glaucoma and can lead to emergencies.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid the use of eye drops, as it may affect the developing baby and the drug can pass to the baby through breast milk. Always consult with the doctor before using any remedies for red eyes.

What Are the Side Effects Associated With Redness-Relieving Eye Drops?

• Increased redness of the eye.

• Eye pain.

• Mild burning sensation in the eye.

• Watery Eyes.

• Vision changes.

• Uneven heartbeat or chest pain.

• Severe headache.

• Buzzing in the ears.

• Anxiety and confusion.

What Are the Tips for the Safe Usage of Eye Drops?

• Use the eye drops only when in need. Avoid regular usage.

• Use the drops only after consulting a doctor. Self-medication may worsen the situation.

• Remove contact lenses before using the eye drops.

• The frequency of red eyes should be noted. Frequent eye irritation can be due to a more serious eye problem.

• Consult an eye specialist if one experiences any of the following

• Blurry vision.

• Pain, and discharge from the eye.

• Sudden bloodshot or redness of the eye.

• Only one eye is affected, and the other remains normal.

• Avoid the use in glaucoma patients.

• Search for other remedies than eye drops.

What Are the Remedies Other Than Eye Drops?

• Eye drops are not the only remedy for the redness of the eye. Talk to the doctor and find the exact cause.

• Once the exact cause is known, the medication can be changed accordingly.

• In redness from allergies, antihistamine eye drops are prescribed.

• In dry eyes, artificial tears work better than redness-relieving eye drops.

• Can place a warm or cold compress over the eyes to reduce the redness.

• Use clean bedding and towels.

• Avoid touching the eyes frequently, as it will help to avoid infection.

Conclusion

The human eye is one of the most sensitive organs. More care is to be taken while using any medication in the eye. Always prefer to use medications recommended by a doctor. A proper examination and diagnosis should be made. Red eyes are temporary symptoms that might not require eye drops every time. Consult a doctor if the symptoms persist.