Sudden red eye in the morning? Understand the reasons and find relief
Most cases of sudden red eye are harmless and temporary.
Waking up to a bloodshot eye can be alarming, transforming your mirror reflection into something scary and discomforting.
But before you panic, understand that sudden red eye in the morning is a common issue with various causes. This article will explore those reasons and offer practical advice for finding relief.
The reasons behind it
The primary reasons for waking up with red eyes include irritation, infection, or allergies. During the night, our eyes are prone to dry out, especially in environments with air conditioning or heating, leading to redness upon waking. Also, substances like dust or pollen can accumulate in the eye over several hours, leading to allergic reactions by morning.
Infection
Infections such as conjunctivitis, or pink eye, can cause your eyes to become red, itchy, and sometimes produce a discharge. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious, so practising good hygiene is crucial to prevent spreading it to others or re-infecting yourself.
Irritation
External irritants like smoke, pollution, or even a stray eyelash can lead to red eyes in the morning. People who wear contact lenses overnight are also at a higher risk of experiencing irritation that results in red eyes upon waking.
Dry eye dilemma
Many individuals suffer from dry eye syndrome, a condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the quality of tears is poor. This can cause significant discomfort and redness, particularly noticeable in the morning.
Finding relief
Relief for a sudden red eye depends on the underlying cause. Here are some general tips to alleviate symptoms:
- Maintain eye hygiene: Keep your eyes clean and avoid touching or rubbing them with unclean hands.
- Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can moisturise dry eyes and reduce redness.
- Apply a cold compress: A cool, damp cloth to the eyes can soothe irritation and decrease redness.
- Allergy management: If allergies are to blame, antihistamine eye drops or oral allergy medications might provide relief.
- Rest your eyes: Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and give your eyes a break from screens to prevent strain.
When to see a doctor
While most cases of sudden red eye are harmless and temporary, some situations require medical attention. If you experience severe pain, vision loss, sensitivity to light, or if the redness doesn’t improve with home care, consult a healthcare professional. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that needs treatment.