Why Your Eyes Might Be Red And Itch?

It’s said that your eyes are the window to your soul, but what about when you have a case of red eye? No one wants to feel embarrassed or deal with the hassle of red eyes. People may avoid you, thinking it’s something contagious when it could be something as simple as the dust in your office.

Here’s a closer look at some reasons your eyes might be red.

What is Red Eye?

Scott & White optometrist William White, OD says red eyes are typically caused by one of three main factors:

1. Infection, typically a virus or bacteria.
2. Environment, typically allergies, lack of sleep, or exposure to irritants.
3. Systemic, typically decreased tear production due to aging or systemic inflammation such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis (both can cause chronic dryness and inflammation).

“The red appearance is caused by enlargement, or dilation, of the blood vessels, typically in a tissue called the conjunctiva,” says Dr. White. “Occasionally, a blood vessel will break and can cause pooling of the blood between the layers. Thankfully, this is not usually a problem and just takes a week or two to slowly clear and no treatment is needed.” Most red eye problems can be identified and treated without any serious complications.

What Other Problems Do Itchy Eyes Cause?

During an allergic reaction additional symptoms may include:

• Watery eyes
• Red bloodshot eyes
• Swollen eyelid
• Difficulty seeing or blurred vision
• Inability to open eye due to swelling
• Congestion; difficulty breathing; wheezing
• Sneezing or runny nose

Why Are My Eyes Itchy?

Allergic reactions occur when the surface of your eye is exposed to allergens. The reaction triggers the release of histamines, causing itchy, red, watery eyes. Rubbing your itchy eyes is highly discouraged. As you rub your eyes, you release more and more histamines, which results in worse symptoms. You can also scratch or cause other trauma to the surface of your eye by rubbing the itch........ Read More...........