What are the Home Remedies to treat Red Eyes?
January 28, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Red eyes can be caused by various factors, including allergies, eye strain, dryness, or irritation. While severe or persistent redness may require medical attention, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate mild redness and discomfort:
- Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to your closed eyelids can help reduce inflammation and soothe redness. Use a clean washcloth soaked in cold water or a cold gel eye mask and apply it to your eyes for 5-10 minutes.
- Warm compress: In some cases, a warm compress can help improve circulation and relieve redness caused by dry eyes or eyelid inflammation. Use a clean washcloth soaked in warm water and apply it to your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes.
- Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help relieve redness and irritation caused by dry eyes. Use preservative-free eye drops and follow the instructions on the label for proper usage.
- Cucumber slices: Chilled cucumber slices have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and soothe irritated eyes. Place thin slices of cucumber over your closed eyelids and relax for 10-15 minutes.
- Tea bags: Brew a cup of chamomile or green tea, then allow the used tea bags to cool in the refrigerator. Once chilled, place the tea bags over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes to help reduce redness and inflammation.
- Rose water: Rose water has natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate redness and irritation in the eyes. Soak cotton pads in chilled rose water and place them over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes.
- Blink more often: If your red eyes are caused by prolonged screen time or eye strain, make a conscious effort to blink more frequently. Blinking helps spread tears evenly over the surface of the eyes, keeping them lubricated and reducing redness.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, pollen, and other environmental irritants that can exacerbate redness and irritation in the eyes. Use protective eyewear when necessary, such as goggles or sunglasses, to shield your eyes from irritants.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to dry eyes and increased redness. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to maintain adequate hydration.
- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can cause eye fatigue and redness, so make sure you get enough restful sleep each night. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your eyes to rest and recover.
If your red eyes persist despite trying these home remedies, or if you experience other concerning symptoms such as pain, vision changes, or discharge from the eyes, consult an eye care professional for proper evaluation and treatment.