Eye care

Red eye - associated with tiredness and irritation

Red eye is probably the most common eye complaint for which sufferers seek advice from their pharmacist or general practitioner.
The general term for redness and inflammation of the eye is Conjuctivitis. There are many causes of redness, some of which are serious conditions, so it is important that the cause of the symptoms is identified before the choice of treatment is made.

The eyes can become red (bloodshot) as a result of a lack of sleep, spending time in a smoky or dusty environment, from rubbing them, or from staring at one thing, such as a computer screen for too long (see Tired Eye).

Although the condition is not harmful and the symptoms will resolve without any intervention, consumers may wish to use a product that will remove symptoms quickly.

Ocular vasoconstrictors, such as Naphazoline and Tetrahydrozoline, are used to constrict blood vessels in the eye, rapidly reducing the symptoms of redness, although they have no effect on the cause.

In general, these products should be used for no more than a few days without medical intervention, as they can make the redness worse by causing 'rebound vasodilation'.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.