Numerous conditions, including eye strain, allergies, insufficient sleep, contact lens sensitivity, and even hangovers, can result in red eyes. There are a few simple techniques you can use to get rid of red eyes. Reducing inflammation and constricting blood vessels in the eyes are key to removing redness. Additionally, there are over-the-counter eye drops with ingredients that reduce redness quickly. Recurring red eyes can be avoided by adopting healthy habits like getting adequate sleep, maintaining hydration, managing allergies, taking breaks from screens and refraining from rubbing your eyes.
Try Cold Compresses for Allergies
Allergies can result in itchy and swollen eyes. A cold compress on the eye's surface lowers swelling and redness. Fill a washcloth with ice and cold water and cover your eyelids with a cool, damp towel for five to ten minutes. The coolness will relieve scratchy, inflamed eyes and help restore a clear, white appearance. For immediate relief from red, watery eyes repeat this several times a day. It's a quick and easy way to feel better until antihistamines take effect.
Use Over-the-Counter Eye Drops
Eye drops help to lessen redness and offer immediate relief by tightening the blood vessels in the eyes. These immediately reduce redness by limiting blood vessel dilatation in the eyes. For best results, keep your eyes closed for two minutes after applying. The drops start to work within minutes to lessen swelling and narrow wide blood vessels that cause red eyes. Over-the-counter eye drops can be the fastest way to get rid of red eyes, but remember not to use them too often as they can often result in dependance.
Stay Hydrated and Avoid Irritants
Dehydration and exposure to irritants are common causes of red, inflamed eyes. Now the question arises can water get rid of red eyes? The answer is yes, moisture in your eyes can be improved and redness reduced by drinking more water and avoiding beverages like alcohol and coffee. Drink plenty of water, 8 to 10 glasses each day. Additionally, stay away from environmental irritants including cigarette smoke, pool chlorine, air pollution, and allergies.
Take Breaks and Practice Eye Exercises
Taking regular breaks when looking at the screen helps prevent eye strain that causes redness. Simple eye exercises might help reduce tension even more. Roll your eyes slowly in opposite directions. To encourage blood flow, gently massage your eyelids and the area around your eye. Limit your caffeine intake because it can cause dry eyes and stay hydrated. To maximize overnight recovery, screen time should be minimized just before bedtime.
Remove Contact Lenses and Clean Them
If you wear contact lenses, taking them out and giving your eyes a rest will help soothe red, itchy eyes quickly. Over time, contact lenses can accumulate irritants close to your eyes, resulting in swelling and irritation in the eyes. Carefully wash and dry your hands before handling lenses. Remove the lenses with care, then clean them as directed. Limit your screen time, and after removing your contact lenses, give rest to your eyes. Keeping lenses clean and giving your eyes a break from them regularly will help keep your eyes looking and feeling refreshed.
Get Sufficient Sleep
One of the best ways to get rid of red eyes is to get enough sleep. The majority of adults require 7-9 hours of good sleep each night. Sleep helps the eyes recover from the tension and dryness they have been under all day. Lack of sleep can result in puffy, irritated, and red eyes. Try to maintain a consistent sleep pattern and create a soothing bedtime routine. To get a good night's sleep, stay away from screens and caffeine just before bedtime. Consult an optometrist if red eyes persisted despite getting enough sleep because this could indicate an underlying eye disease.
Practice Good Eye Hygiene And Seek Professional Advice
Constant exposure to screens, sunlight, and pollution can result in red, itchy eyes. Maintaining eye health and minimizing redness requires regular eye hygiene. When using screens, take frequent pauses, stay hydrated, don't touch your eyes, and keep your eye makeup to yourself. Take proper sleep and wear sunglasses outside. If redness continues, consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist. To maintain healthy eyes and relief from irritation, book an appointment at Lynbrook Optical right now. To help you see clearly and comfortably, our eye physicians offer thorough eye exams and treatment.
