Sleep Deprivation: Why Do Your Eyes Turn Red?

Sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of eye issues, including redness, itchiness, dryness, and bloodshot eyes. This occurs because the eyes produce fewer tears when one does not get enough sleep, which can lead to dryness and a higher risk of eye infections. Lack of sleep also causes blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, resulting in the appearance of red or bloodshot eyes. Additionally, sleep deprivation can cause eye twitches or spasms, blurry vision, light sensitivity, and under-eye bags. To maintain eye health and prevent these issues, it is important to get sufficient sleep and practice good sleep hygiene.

Dry eyes

• Pain
• Itching
• Sensitivity to light
• Redness
• Blurred vision

In addition to sleep deprivation, dry eyes can also be caused by environmental factors such as air pollution, dust, smoke, and dry air. Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and uveitis, can also lead to dry eyes.

To alleviate dry eyes, there are several at-home treatments that can be used:

• Rest with your eyes closed while applying cold compresses
• Use lubricating eye drops, such as artificial tears
• Take antihistamines if allergies are a contributing factor
• Reduce contact lens use and screen time, especially before bed
• Avoid environmental irritants, such as secondhand smoke and air pollution

Eye infections

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin outermost membrane surrounding the eyeball. It is caused by either bacterial or viral infections, and sometimes by allergies or exposure to chemicals. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can be spread for up to two weeks after the infection starts. Treatment options include antibiotic eye drops and over-the-counter antihistamines. In some cases, a warm, wet cloth can be applied to the eyes to relieve discomfort.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an infection of the cornea, the clear layer covering the pupil and iris. It can be caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections, or by an eye injury. Treatment for keratitis usually involves eye drops, and symptoms should improve within a few days to a week of starting treatment. However, fungal infections can take longer to treat, and viral infections cannot be fully eliminated.

Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the inside of the eye caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It usually develops from contracting a pathogen in the environment or after eye surgery. Treatment involves injecting antibiotics directly into the eye, and sometimes a corticosteroid shot is needed to reduce inflammation.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the skin folds covering the eyes, usually caused by bacteria clogging the oil glands inside the eyelid skin. It can also have non-infectious causes. Blepharitis is typically treated by cleaning the eyelids with clean water and applying a warm, wet towel to reduce swelling, along with corticosteroid eye drops or ointments to address inflammation. Lubricating eye drops and antibiotics may also be used.

Stye

A stye is a pimple-like bump that develops from a clogged oil gland on the outer edges of the eyelids. Treatment includes applying a warm, damp cloth to the eyelids several times a day and using mild soap and water to clean the eyelids. Antibiotic ointments and over-the-counter pain relievers may also be used to address pain and swelling.

Uveitis

Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the central layer of the eyeball that transports blood to the retina. It can be caused by immune system conditions, infections, or eye injuries. Uveitis is typically treated with darkened glasses, eye drops to relieve pain, and corticosteroid eye drops or oral steroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, oral antibiotics or medications to suppress the immune system may be necessary.

Eyelid Cellulitis

Eyelid cellulitis is an infection of the eye tissues, often caused by a scratch or other injury that introduces infectious bacteria. It is more common in young children. Treatment typically involves oral or intravenous antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve pressure within the eye.

Ocular Herpes

Ocular herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and is spread through contact with someone who has an active infection. Treatment includes antiviral medication, such as eye drops, oral medications, or topical ointments. In some cases, debridement, which involves brushing the cornea with cotton to remove infected cells, may be necessary.

To prevent eye infections, it is important to practice good hygiene, avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands, and avoid sharing eye makeup or towels. Contact lens wearers should also follow directions for lens use and cleaning and disinfect lenses daily.

Bloodshot eyes

There are many causes of bloodshot eyes, ranging from mild to severe. Some common causes include:

• Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust, and mould can irritate the eyes, causing redness and swelling.
• Dry eyes: This condition occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears, leading to redness, a stinging or burning sensation, and sensitivity to light.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Inflammation of the membrane covering the insides of the eyelids and the white part of the eye, often caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or environmental irritants.
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids, causing redness, a burning sensation, and crusty eyelids in the morning.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the middle part of the eye, which can lead to eye redness, sensitivity to light, and pain.
• Subconjunctival hemorrhage: A broken blood vessel in the eye, causing a bright red patch. This is usually harmless and clears up on its own.
• Glaucoma: A group of eye diseases that cause vision loss. Glaucoma can lead to eye redness, severe eye pain, decreased or blurred vision, and halos in your vision.
• Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to dry, itchy, and bloodshot eyes, as the eyes may produce less tears after a night of insufficient sleep.

While bloodshot eyes can often be treated at home with eye drops, compresses, and allergy medications, it is important to see a doctor if the condition persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as eye pain, changes in vision, light sensitivity, or discharge from the eyes.

Eye strain

Symptoms of eye strain include red, watery, irritated eyes, tired or aching eyelids, blurred vision and problems with focusing, muscle spasms of the eye or eyelid, and an inability to keep the eyes open.

To relieve eye strain, it is recommended to adjust the work environment by reducing reflections, glare, and bright lighting, and increasing the room's humidity. It is also beneficial to wear proper prescription glasses or adjust the font size for better visibility. Additionally, using over-the-counter artificial tears can help moisten the eyes and prevent dryness.

To prevent eye strain, it is important to schedule regular rest breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen or book and focus on an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Keeping the eyes moist by blinking or using artificial tears is also crucial. When using digital screens, ensure they are slightly farther away than reading material and are clean, dust-free, in proper focus, and with a display brightness that matches the surrounding lighting.

While eye strain is a common condition, prolonged or persistent eye irritation may indicate something more serious, and it is recommended to consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sleep deprivation

Redness and Irritation

Red eyes occur when the tiny blood vessels on the surface of the whites of the eyes expand, causing a pink or reddish tint. Sleep deprivation can lead to eye redness due to a lack of lubrication and oxygen in the eyes, resulting in temporary redness. This can be exacerbated by staring at digital screens for extended periods, as it reduces blinking and further decreases moisture in the eyes.

Dry Eyes

Blurred Vision

Lack of sleep can result in blurred vision, which can interfere with daily activities like driving and increase the risk of accidents. Blurred vision may be caused by dryness or insufficient lubrication of the eyes during sleep.

Eye Infections

Other Complications

In addition to the issues mentioned above, sleep deprivation can lead to eye twitching (myokymia), dark circles, puffiness, and eyelid spasms. It can also contribute to the development of nearsightedness (myopia), especially in children and adolescents.

To alleviate eye redness and irritation caused by sleep deprivation, it is recommended to get more sleep, use eye drops, and apply cold compresses. However, if the condition persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult an eye doctor.

Frequently asked questions