Pain in the eyes: causes of symptoms and methods of treatment

Throughout life, many people face such a problem as pain in the eyes. This unpleasant sensation is caused by damage mainly to the anterior parts of the eyeball and can be a symptom of many diseases and pathological conditions.

How to recognize the causes of pain in the eyes and find an effective remedy to eliminate this symptom? First of all, you should see an ophthalmologist, but you can also get useful information from this article.

Causes of redness and irritation of the eyes

What causes red eyes? Doctors have compiled a list of ten main irritating factors:

Prolonged stays in offices with operating air conditioners, heaters, and electronic devices contribute to the drying out of the protective tear film, causing damage to the conjunctiva.
An allergic reaction is one of the top causes of tearfulness and red eyes. Allergies usually manifest themselves seasonally, being especially noticeable during the flowering period.
Low-quality decorative cosmetics.
Driving for a long time.
Taking certain medications stimulates reddening of the sclera. For example, we are talking about sleeping pills, antidepressants, and drugs containing hormones.
Lack of a good night's sleep.
Watching TV for a long time or working on a laptop monitor reduces blinking. Because of this, tear fluid is not released in the required volume, causing itching and irritation of the eyes.
Chronic alcoholism and addiction to regular parties with alcoholic drinks: due to alcohol, the vessels of the cornea dilate, making the eyelids and face red.
Active and passive smoking, including hookah, spraying irritating aerosols.
Environmental factors: chlorinated water, urban smog, dust.

When redness is a symptom

Ophthalmic pathologies and infections stimulate inflammation and swelling of the protein membrane. Here are some of them:

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin mucous membrane or conjunctiva. Signs of the disease include itching, pain, discharge from the eyes, and redness of the sclera.
Corneal ulcers are caused by bacterial infections and often occur as a result of eye trauma. In addition to increased photosensitivity and decreased visual acuity, itching, swelling, and redness of the eyelids are added.
Dry eye syndrome occurs due to insufficient tear production. The surface of the cornea becomes excessively dry, the person experiences permanent fatigue and discomfort in the eyelid area.

Only an ophthalmologist during an examination can determine the causes and consequences of swollen red eyes. If necessary, diagnostic studies and tests are performed, such as measuring the volume of tear fluid. In case of severe pain, biomicroscopy and tonometry are performed.

As medicinal support, eye drops are required to relieve redness and help moisturize the organs of vision.

Red eyes - what to do?

If the sign of tension appears sporadically, it is enough to use inexpensive eye drops for eye irritation. Symptoms that persist for a long time require medical consultation, diagnosis, and treatment of identified diseases. It is the doctor who will answer the question of which drops can be used and in what dosage. For any diagnosis, ophthalmologists recommend using daily moisturizing drops to relieve irritation and redness as vision support.

General recommendations

If redness does not cause discomfort to a person and does not interfere with his life, then you can do nothing and take a wait-and-see approach. If hyperemia is accompanied by the appearance of unpleasant symptoms and bothers you for a long time, you should consult a specialist.

Therapeutic tactics are selected depending on the underlying cause. A qualified ophthalmologist will be able to identify the risk factor in your case after an examination.

Red eyes can be a result of irritation from cool air, wind, or tobacco smoke. An allergy to animal hair, fluff, pollen or decorative cosmetics can provoke hyperemia. Spending a long time in front of a computer or TV, stressful situations, wear of contact lenses, colds, chronic fatigue - all this and much more can cause visual dysfunction.

Some treatments can be done at home. More serious medical procedures will have to be carried out under the supervision of a doctor. If the cause of hyperemia is lack of sleep or excessive fatigue, then the treatment program should include proper rest of the visual system. You need to sleep at least eight hours a day.

If you spend a long time in front of the computer, periodically give your eyes a little rest. During a break, you can do gymnastics to relax the extraocular muscles.

If you have an allergic reaction to cosmetics, you will have to discard them during treatment. If you use lenses, you should always remove them while you sleep. When redness is accompanied by a feeling of dryness, it is better to use moisturizing drops.

If any chemical gets into your eye and causes redness, quickly rinse it under running water and consult a doctor. Particular attention should be paid to redness, accompanied by blurred vision and pain. Self-medication in such cases is unacceptable, as you can harm yourself even more.

It is imperative to consult a doctor in the following cases:

penetrating wound;
the appearance of headache, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, blurred vision;
the appearance of a halo when looking at the light source;
redness does not go away within 24 hours;
entry of a foreign body;
the appearance of yellow or green discharge from the eye.

Which drops to choose

The choice of medicinal solutions for treatment of red eyes is based on the collected medical history. To decide on a specific drug, the doctor:

talks;
examines the skin;
checks the patient's vision;
examines the condition of the fundus, measures intraocular pressure;
clarifies hereditary factors, possible contraindications, talks about side effects.

Not all eye drops for redness are suitable for pregnant women and children, so buying the first remedy you come across at the pharmacy is simply unwise. The best drops for eye redness are those that suit you in all respects.

We systematize the medications based on the most common symptoms, which include red, swollen eyelids:

Classification of drops

All ophthalmic solutions, depending on the active substance, are classified into several medicinal groups.

Antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed for influenza, ARVI, herpes virus, and mechanical damage to the cornea. Main signs: photophobia, swollen lymph nodes, burning sensation, swelling of the eyelids.
Antibacterial agents are used for bacterial infections of the mucous membrane, which are manifested by purulent discharge along with pain.
Moisturizing compositions are indicated for constant visual work, as well as while wearing contact optics.
Antihistamine and anti-inflammatory solutions - for an allergic reaction. Swollen, reddened eyelids are accompanied by increased tearing and itching in the bridge of the nose.
Hormonal eye solutions for irritation and itching are prescribed for severe cases of allergies.
Vitamin compositions for red eyes increase local metabolism, accelerate regeneration, and nourish.

Vasoconstrictors

Eye drops for this type of redness cause constriction of the capillaries, relieve swelling and inflammation of the tissues of the eyelid.

Moisturizing

Increased dryness of the mucous membrane, visual fatigue, constant wearing of contact lenses - all this is a reason to daily drip ophthalmic solutions consisting of distilled water and hyaluronic acid into the eyes. Products with a similar composition create a thin film on the surface of the eyes that protects against dust and dirt.

Antiviral, anti-inflammatory

Based on scrapings from the surface of the mucous membrane or skin of the eyelids, the doctor determines the presence of a viral infection, which requires special drugs that trigger the production of interferons to combat it. Anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal and glucocorticosteroid drugs relieve swelling, eliminate itching, discomfort, and redness caused by the underlying disease. Some of the medications are sold by prescription only.

Antibacterial

Damage to the visual organs by bacteria or parasites requires treatment aimed at specific pathogens. Prescription antibacterials can be used to treat these types of infections.

Antiallergic

Antihistamines do not eliminate the cause of pain or discomfort, but they are good at relieving the symptoms of an allergic reaction by blocking the production of histamine. Solutions eliminate swelling, tearing, and redness.

Vitamin

General strengthening drugs to maintain visual health. You can take inexpensive products containing vitamins only after talking with an ophthalmologist, since most medications of this type have a cumulative effect, which can be harmful with prolonged use.

Preventive agents

To prevent the development of dry eye syndrome, as well as more severe pathologies of the visual system, it is recommended to instill moisturizing solutions during heavy workload. They will quickly relieve muscle tone, creating a protective film similar to natural tears.

Children's drops for redness and irritation of the eyes

There are no special medications for children's eyes for redness. Children are usually prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and vitamin solutions. To relieve swelling, redness, and itching in children over two years of age, an instillation medicine is recommended - Sigida Crystal, produced at the Solopharm plant.

Drops overview

To gently restore the surface of the eyeball, ophthalmologists prescribe inexpensive drops with a moisturizing effect Gilan Comfort and Ultra Comfort from the St. Petersburg company Solopharm. Eye drops for redness are available in the form of convenient disposable tube droppers that are easy to take with you.

The drug with hyaluronic acid does not contain preservatives and is safe for long-term use for dry eye syndrome and intense visual work. Gilan creates a thin film on the surface of the cornea, saving the mucous membrane from drying out and inflammatory reactions. Gilan quickly eliminates stress from long-term driving, reading or working with electronic devices. The ophthalmic solution is compatible with all types of contact lenses and is approved for women during pregnancy.

Sigid crystal solution is an effective eye drop for redness caused by allergens. The vasoconstrictor ophthalmic drug contains naphazoline, is produced without preservatives, and is recommended by pediatricians for use in children aged two years and older.

Vixipin is a prescription pain reliever against inflammation and infections. The drug gently helps with corneal burns of varying degrees, hemorrhage, retinal thrombosis and other pathologies. Vixipin quickly relieves red eyes and fights the disease that caused it.

If swelling of the eyelids along with redness of the sclera occurs due to increased intraocular pressure with glaucoma, doctors prescribe the drug composition Trilactan. The drug, produced at the plant in St. Petersburg, effectively relieves feelings of fatigue and discomfort, and is recommended for the treatment of glaucoma.

Rating of the best eye drops when using lenses

Oxyal

Helps with contact conjunctivitis
Country: Italy
Price: 642 RUR
Rating (2021): 9

Little known, but a good product for daily use. In its action, it is similar to other similar drugs - hyaluronic acid moisturizes the cornea and conjunctiva, forming a thin film that helps retain moisture on the surface and soothes the inflamed eye, boric acid has an antiseptic (disinfecting) effect, and trace elements (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium) stimulate the formation of natural tears, which enhances the effect of the drops.

Advantages
Relieves tension after prolonged exercise
Longer lasting effect compared to others

Disadvantages Price

Khilozar-Komod

Contains panthenol
Country: Germany
Price: 436 RUR
Rating (2021): 9

A distinctive feature of these drops is the presence of dexpanthenol, a B vitamin. It has a regenerating (restorative), moisturizing and mild anti-inflammatory effect, quickly heals small wounds and abrasions after long-term wearing of lenses. The main moisturizing component is hyaluronic acid.

Advantages
Helps restore mucous membranes after laser vision correction
Convenient to dose
Packaging that prevents the entry of germs

Disadvantages Expensive

Cationorm

Helps with excessive tearing
Country: France
Price: 520 RUR
Rating (2021): 9

Excellent drops from a French manufacturer for dry and tired eyes based on glycerin, which is similar in properties to hyaluronic acid and is no less popular. It has not only a moisturizing, but also a protective effect, preventing the adverse effects of harmful environmental factors.

Advantages
Does not cause a burning sensation
Suitable for sensitive eyes

Disadvantages Price

Inconvenient IV

Artelak Splash

Several release forms
Country: Germany
Price: 446 RUR
Rating (2021): 9

Despite the fact that the main active ingredient in the drops is hyaluronic acid, they deserve a place in our selection. A well-known German brand guarantees the high quality of the drug. Hyaluronic acid “binds” to the fluid on the surface of the eye, preventing it from evaporating and keeping the eye moisturized for a long time. For convenience, there is another form of the drug, which is available in the form of disposable ampoules.

Advantages
No preservatives
Economically used

Disadvantages Price

Renu MultiPlus

Extends the shelf life of lenses
Country: USA
Price: 132 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.5

The drug is one of the most popular companies producing contact lenses and moisturizing solutions. True, these are not drops, but a solution for storing lenses, which is in no way inferior to drops. Active substances will help remove organic deposits from the surface of the lenses, have a disinfecting effect, preventing infection and the formation of pus, and create a protective moisturizing film on the eye and the lens itself, preventing irritation.

Advantages
Cleans lenses perfectly
A lot of good reviews
Suitable even for night lenses

Flaws -

Optinol Deep hydration

Suitable after eye surgery
Country: Croatia
Price: 564 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.5

A product based on hyaluronic acid, which not only has a moisturizing and moisture-retaining effect, but also somewhat accelerates the healing of small wounds, microcracks and abrasions that could appear for various reasons: trauma, foreign body penetration, exposure to toxic gases, cigarette smoke, etc. Composition excipients are absolutely harmless and include sodium-containing substances designed to maintain an optimal pH level of the eye mucosa.

Advantages
Large dosage of active substance
Viscous consistency ensures economical consumption
Excellent analogue of artificial tears
Duration of action - up to a day
Convenient dosing button

Disadvantages Price

Oftylla

Best for allergies
Country: Italy
Price: 487 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.5

The composition of the drops of the Italian brand Oftylla includes natural extracts of medicinal plants - mallow extract (mallow) and chamomile extract - a substance that improves the flow of medicinal substances through the mucous membrane. The composition also contains a solution to normalize the level of acidity, which also significantly affects the production of tear fluid and the natural protective functions of the eye. Chamomile and mallow have an anti-inflammatory effect, and mallow perfectly relieves swelling of the conjunctiva, eliminating discomfort.

Advantages
Compatible with soft and hard (including colored) lenses
Soft action
Rarely cause allergies

Disadvantages Price

Licontin Comfort

Suitable for washing lenses if you don’t have a container with solution at hand
Country Russia
Price: 170 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.5

If your eyes hurt from fatigue, try Licontin Comfort! They not only moisturize the mucous membrane of the eye and the lens, but also have a powerful disinfectant effect due to chlorhexidine, which does not cause a strong burning sensation when used, compared to some other products. In addition, the drops can be safely applied to the inside of the lens, and then put it on - the lens will not “go anywhere”, and the eye will remain moisturized for a long time.

Advantages
Safe preservative
Inexpensive
Easy to find in pharmacies

Disadvantages Form an unpleasant film

Systane Ultra

The most effective
Country: USA (Spain)
Price: 506 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.5

The composition of the drops is very extensive. In addition to moisturizing components, they contain boric acid, which has an antiseptic effect and kills pathogens, reducing itching and inflammation, as well as potassium chloride, which has a similar effect. Another active ingredient is polyquad, which gives an antibacterial effect. The drug has an optimal pH level (acidity), maintaining an optimal environment on the surface of the eye, thereby preserving the natural protective properties.

Advantages
Complex action
Long shelf life after opening (6 months)
Helps treat eye infections
Will relieve the pain

Disadvantages Price

Leaves a film on eyelashes

Hilo-Chest

No restrictions on course duration
Country: Germany
Price: 405 RUR
Rating (2021): 9.9

This drug, although it contains only hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient, like most of the drops in the selection, is still included in our list. It differs from others in that it contains fewer excipients and, therefore, the drug has the lowest risk of an allergic reaction. Another advantage is one of the longest shelf life of an open bottle - 6 months.

Advantages
High concentration of hyaluronic acid
Prevents minor hemorrhages
Convenient to instill even with cosmetics on the face
Shelf life 6 months after opening

Flaws -

Rules of application

Take the product strictly as prescribed by your doctor.
If several different drops are prescribed, then you need to take a short break between instillations.
Observe expiration dates.
Before instillation, wash your hands with soap.
Warm the product package in your hands or in a glass of warm water to room temperature.
Tilt your head back and use the index finger of one hand to pull the lower eyelid down
Place 1-2 drops of solution into each conjunctival sac.
After the procedure, you can close your eyes or blink so that the product is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the mucous membrane.
Store solutions in the refrigerator or as prescribed in the instructions.

Modern ophthalmic products, including Gilan moisturizing solution with hyaluronic acid, are available in convenient dropper tubes or in single-use unit doses. The advantage of this form of release:

The dose contained in the dropper tube is sufficient for one instillation procedure.
No need to worry about storing opened packaging.

Contraindications, side effects

The active substance included in eye drops for eye redness directly determines the list of possible contraindications. For most prescription drug formulations they are as follows:

specific diseases such as bronchial asthma or heart failure;
sensitivity to certain components of the drug;
recovery stage after operations on the organs of vision;
pregnancy, lactation period;
childhood.

Moisturizing drops for red sclera, for example, Gilan with hyaluronic acid, have virtually no contraindications and can be taken by women during pregnancy, as well as after surgery.

When can you choose your own drops?

If there is no suspicion of a serious pathology, and discomfort only occasionally bothers you, you can use the usual drops for redness from the group of moisturizing drugs that imitate natural tears. Typically, such drugs are available without a prescription, and the affordable price does not become an obstacle to purchase. If an alarming symptom does not go away for a long time, this is a reason to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the higher the likelihood of avoiding serious consequences and preserving vision.

Prevention - how to prevent redness and irritation

Practicing ophthalmologists have prepared a list of recommendations for maintaining visual health:

After every hour of intense exercise, you need to give your visual organs a five-minute rest. To do this, just go out and walk down the street or close your eyelids and then roll your eyeballs.
To prevent the mucous membrane from being injured from excessive dryness, it is necessary to ventilate and wet clean the premises at work and in the apartment more often.
Frequent blinking helps relieve eye muscle tone. This process triggers the production of natural tears, thereby providing hydration to the eyes.
Gymnastics for the visual organs allows you to relieve irritation and discomfort through special exercises.
Walking in the fresh air, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, giving up alcohol and smoking are obvious but important recommendations.
If necessary, use drops to relieve redness of the eyes, for example Gilan moisturizing solutions.

Preventive measures for red eyes

Preventive measures are taken to reduce the risk of vasodilation and redness. They help reduce the likelihood of these symptoms occurring in many situations and keep your eyes healthy.

Proper hygiene. This type of preventive measure is quite simple to follow. To do this, you need to wash your hands after going outside, change your lenses on time, not touch your eyes with your hands, etc.
Compliance with the work and rest regime. Getting enough sleep and taking breaks from activities that cause eye strain (working on a computer, using a smartphone, etc.) help prevent redness and other symptoms.
Exercises for the eyes. To strengthen tissues and restore blood flow, it is worth doing a little gymnastics. For example, you can:
with closed and then with open eyes look left, up, right and down. The exercise is done 8 times;
close your eyes for a few seconds and then open your eyes wide. The exercise is repeated 5 times.
Diet correction. The condition of the eyes is affected by diet. It is important that the menu contains foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, B, PP, D every day.

1 According to the instructions for use of the drug

2 Is a medical device