Key takeaways

  • There are different types of eye drops for red eyes based on their underlying cause, such as lubricating drops for dryness and antihistamine drops for allergies.
  • Some eye drop ingredients, such as naphazoline and tetrahydrozoline, may worsen redness over time through a rebound effect.
  • Seek medical attention if red eyes persist despite treatment, or if you need lubricating drops more than two to three times daily.

Many people experience red eyes at some point. The symptom is usually fleeting and not a sign of any serious condition.

Over-the-counter or prescription drops can treat red eyes. However, it is important to determine the cause of red eyes before treating the symptoms, as infections and other medical conditions can cause red eyes and may need medical attention.

Eye drops are suitable for red eyes that occur due to irritation, fatigue, or other temporary factors. However, they will not treat any underlying causes.

If a person frequently has red eyes, they should speak with a doctor.

Eye lubricant drops

Lubricant eye drops use lipids to mimic real tears. They can help reduce discomfort due to eye dryness.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) advises that people who use eye lubricants frequently should look for preservative-free options.

Allergy eye drops

If red eyes occur due to allergies, antihistamine eye drops may help reduce itchiness and redness.

Naphazoline

Naphazoline is a nasal decongestant present that can also treat red eyes, if the cause is allergies or irritation. It does this by constricting small arteries in the eyes.

However, an article from the AAO says that this drug can worsen redness over time. This is because, when the drops wear off, the arteries widen again. Over time, it may stop working as effectively.

Tetrahydrazoline

Tetrahydrozoline is also a decongestant that works similarly to naphazoline, reducing redness due to allergies, tiredness, and irritation. It is present in drops such as Visine.

The AAO also warns against using this ingredient because it can worsen redness over the long term.

Brimonidine

Brimonidine is a newer option for red eye. It works by constricting tiny veins in the eye, rather than the arteries.

The manufacturer claims that this is safer than naphazoline and tetrahydrazoline because, while they target arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood, brimonidine targets veins carrying deoxygenated blood away.

This prevents interruptions in the oxygen supply, which may prevent a “rebound” effect. A 2020 review of past research found that brimonidine rarely caused worsened redness in clinical trials.

However, there is a lack of research on the long-term safety of this ingredient.

There are some other strategies people can try to ease red eyes, including:

  • cold compresses on the eyelids
  • avoiding triggers, such as allergens or cigarette smoke
  • washing the hands before touching the eyes
  • washing bedding, clothing, and towels regularly
  • using humidifiers or dehumidifiers to ensure indoor humidity is at a healthy level

Redness-relieving drops are not safe for everyone. People who should not use these products include:

  • children
  • people who are pregnant or nursing
  • people with glaucoma

Additionally, drugs such as naphazoline can interact with other medications, such as:

  • methylene blue
  • linezolid
  • isocarboxazid
  • phenelzine
  • tranylcypromine

This is not a comprehensive list of possible interactions or risks, so anyone who has recently taken any medication or who has other medical conditions should check with a doctor or pharmacist before using eye redness drops.

Always keep medical products, including OTC products, out of the reach of children. Some eye drop ingredients are toxic if swallowed.

People do not need to see a doctor every time their eyes look red. However, the AAO recommends speaking with a doctor if a person needs to use lubricating eye drops more than two or three times per day.

Anyone who experiences any of the following symptoms should also consult a doctor:

  • eye redness that does not get better with home care after around 1 week
  • eye redness in a child under 2 years old
  • discharge or crusting around the eyes
  • mild swelling around the eyes
  • blurry vision
  • frequently dry or scratchy eyes
  • watery eyes
  • a sensation that something is stuck in the eye
  • frequent itchiness or soreness
  • fever or general feeling of being unwell

If any of the following occur, seek immediate medical attention:

  • intense pain
  • difficulty opening the eyes
  • vision changes, such as wavy lines, flashes of light, or vision loss
  • light sensitivity
  • a severe or sudden headache
  • one pupil growing bigger than the other
  • redness that occurs after the eye comes into contact with a chemical substance
  • feelings of pressure in the eyes
  • green discharge from the eye
  • red eyes in a baby under 28 days old

In emergencies affecting the eyes, do not attempt to drive. Instead, call for an ambulance or have someone else drive to the nearest hospital.

When the tiny blood vessels in the eye swell, the eyes look red and irritated. These vessels occasionally burst, producing more intense redness.

Red eyes can be a result of conditions ranging in severity from minor to sight-threatening, such as:

  • eye irritation
  • dry eye disease
  • infections
  • injuries from objects or chemicals
  • glaucoma
  • uveitis
  • ulcers
  • drug or alcohol use
  • some skin conditions, such as rosacea

Some of these conditions can affect vision permanently without treatment, which is why it is important to speak with a doctor if the eyes often look red or inflamed.

There are several types of eye drops that may help with red eyes. Lubricating drops help with dryness, allergy drops can help with red and itchy eyes, and some anti-redness ingredients may reduce the appearance of blood vessels.

However, the latter ingredients can also have downsides, and they are not suitable for everyone. Some anti-redness drops may make redness worse over time.

If a person often has red eyes or has other medical conditions, it is important to speak with a doctor before using these.