$Unique_ID{BRK00148}
$Pretitle{Nervous System and Sense Organs}
$Title{What Is the Reason For Bloodshot Eyes?}
$Subject{conjunctivitis red eye irritations}
$Volume{F-21}
$Log{
Conjunctivitis*0010401.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Is the Reason For Bloodshot Eyes?


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QUESTION:  I know a good night on the town can get me, but what is the reason
for blood shot eyes?  My wife tells me they can be contagious, but I don't see
how that can be possible.  Do I need to see my local doctor or can you help?

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ANSWER:  There are many reasons for those red eyes, and while lack of sleep is
one of them, there are others that are a bit more serious, and may, as your
wife has informed you, be contagious.  For eyes irritated by wind or sun, or
from specks, or too little rest, an eyewash, using artificial tears may be
treatment enough (along with the necessary sleep). Overuse of contact lenses,
an improper care and cleansing, is also another frequent sourse of eye
irritations.  A few days rest without lenses may be the answer here.  However,
if your vision is blurred, you find crusts in your eyelashes, feel pain in
your eyes, or see a discharge from under your eyelids, you better be on your
way to your physician.  Such signs and symptoms indicate that something is
happening that requires attention, and probably medication as well.  Infection
of the clear membrane that covers the eye (conjunctivitis) is an infection
that spreads to other members of the family quite readily, and you will all
have to follow a careful discipline of maintaining separate towels and
washcloths, and frequent hand washing.  Fortunately, such infections resolve
rapidly once the proper antibiotic is prescribed and applied as per
directions.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
