What Causes Bloodshot Eyes?
5. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when there is inadequate tear production or rapid evaporation of tears. This causes easily tired eyes, irritation, red (bloodshot) eyes, blurry vision, and discharge. Some patients may have scarring of the cornea without treatment.
Dry eye syndrome can be due to vitamin A deficiency, contact lens use, allergies, pregnancy, meibomian gland dysfunction, hormone replacement therapy, and side effects of medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and antihypertensives. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Patients are usually given artificial tears as the first line of treatment. Other options include wrap around glasses to decrease tear evaporation, changing medications that cause dry eyes, steroid eye drops, ciclosporin eye drops, and lacrimal plugs.
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