Re: Why do eyes get bloodshot when they are irrtated?

Hi Nikki:

Eyes looking "bloodshot" due to irritation can mean many different things. You should always seek medical attention if you think something serious is wrong with your eyes. The appearance of a "bloodshot" eye is usually a result of irritants in the eye. For example, a new contact lens solution that you may be sensitive to can cause your eyes to become red and irritated and appear "bloodshot". Lack of sleep can also cause it as well as environmental conditions, like dry or dusty wind. A foreign object, like a splinter or metal fillings can embed themselves in the outer surfaces of the eye and can cause eyes to look "bloodshot". There are also many serious eye conditions that can make your eyes appear "bloodshot".

The reason the eyes look red (bloodshot) is because the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva (white part of eye) become engorged with blood, in a response to a foreign contaminant or irritant. The engorgement is part of the inflammation process. The eyes may also "water" and feel uncomfortable. These symptoms are part of the natural defense mechanism of the eye against foreign contaminants and irritants.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

Kenton McWilliams, O.D.