Red Eyes

[CoolioFoolio]

I have chronically red eyes, but I don't have Rosacea of the face. I was just wondering if it is possible to have only Ocular Rosacea? My mum has problems with having a red face, though I think.

I'm 18, my eyes have been red for nearly a year now and they are getting steadily worse. To be honest they first appeared one night after I was on the computer for way too long, my doctor said it is normal and my optician said they are permanent because my eyes got too dry. I don't want to give up just yet, still hoping for a miracle. :P They are especially sensitive now, if I try to play video games or anything like that now they sting and get extremely red on the nose-side.

My eyes always burn, but sometimes more than others. I used eyedrops with preservatives for ages, but since I found out I should be using preservative free I don't know what brand to get here in the UK. They are the most red when I get up in the morning, second most in the evenings. They especially clear up and the big ones become lighter if I have a nap though.

I want to see an eye specialist, but I don't know how to convince my doctor that I need one :( I can't find one that works privately

[PA Dancer]

You shouldn't have to convince a doctor that you want to see an eye doc.

If he gives you a hard time, just tell him that you are having blurry vision.

Staring at a computer screen for long periods of time can do a number on your eyes. Basically...you are forgetting to blink. Rest your eyes from time to time.

And be careful with the type of eye drops you are using. If it's just a matter of dry eyes consider just a re-wetting drop and not something that gets the red out.

The eyes are getting red for a reason...you need to find out that reason.

[Melissa W]

Hi,

I agree with Ann.

You should definitely not use any drops that say they'll "get the red out".
What happens with those is that they have a vasoconstrictor in them so initially they make your eyes whiter but after a while you get a rebound effect and the blood vessels in your eye dilate making them appear redder.

Look for OTC preservative-free rewetting drops and use them often. And after every 10-15 minutes on the computer look away and refocus for far. So you don't get focusing spasms. While working on the computer we also don't blink as often as we should and there is a buildup of dust, debris, etc. Blinking is a protective mechanism so the rewetting drops also help to protect your eyes and replenish the tear film.

Definitely get an appt to see an eye doctor. I like Ann's advice of saying your vision is blurry. That's sure to get you a referral!

Cool compresses will also help make your eyes feel better and look less red.

Good luck!
Melissa