How To Reduce Redness In Your Eyes Upon Waking Up

Waking up with red eyes is normal and harmless most of the time. The common and scientific explanation would be that during sleep, the eyes may dry out due to reduced blinking, causing blood vessels on the surface of the eyes to become more visible, leading to redness. However, other factors, such as sleeping in an environment with low humidity, exposure to allergens, or even sleeping in contact lenses, can also contribute to morning redness. That's not all, though. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Anjal Shah, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract, and Refractive Surgeon, Dr. Sachdev Maxivision Eye Hospital, Surat, discusses other common causes of eye redness upon waking up, some of which can be easily prevented or managed.

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What Causes Eye Redness When You Wake Up?

Several factors can cause eye redness. According to StatPearls Publishing, it is often a sign of conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is characterised by swelling or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye, explains the American Optometric Association (AOA).

Listing other common causes, Dr Shah says that dry eyes, allergies, lack of sleep, or irritation from contact lenses can also lead to irritation in the eyes and redness consequently.

Environmental factors such as dust or smoke and excessive screen time can also contribute, he adds.

Role Of Sleep Hygiene

Highlighting the importance of good sleep, Dr Shah says, “Poor sleep hygiene and an unsuitable bedroom environment can cause eye redness. To improve, establish a regular sleep schedule, limit screen time before bed, and keep the room dark, cool, and free of allergens. Using a humidifier, maintaining clean bedding, and practising relaxation techniques can also help enhance sleep quality.”

According to the Sleep Foundation, most healthy adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night, whereas babies, young children, and teenagers require even more sleep to support their growth and development.

Diet And Hydration

Interestingly, diet and hydration significantly impact eye health, according to Dr Shah. While dehydration can dry out your eyes, leading to red and itchy eyes, deficiency in foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, citrus fruits, and leafy greens, can harm your eye health and increase the risk of redness. Therefore, it is crucial to increase the nutrient-rich foods in your diet and drink plenty of water while avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine.

Also Read: Eye Health Is Often Ignored, Here’s How You Can Take Care Of Your Eye

How To Reduce Eye Redness?

Effective home remedies for eye redness include:

• Applying cold compresses
• Using artificial tears
• Maintaining good eye hygiene
• Over-the-counter treatments like antihistamine eye drops, lubricating drops, and anti-redness drops

Bottomline

Dr Shah says, “Persistent eye redness warrants concern if accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, discharge, or swelling, along with other signs including sensitivity to light, a foreign body sensation, or if redness doesn't improve with home treatment.

“These symptoms may indicate infections or other serious conditions, necessitating prompt medical evaluation,” he emphasises.