SINGAPORE – Are your eyes red? It could be because of dryness, or an immune response to dust, allergens or viral or bacterial infection.

The immune response to such triggers increases blood flow to the surface of the eye, which then appears red.

Other common reasons for red eyes in patients are dry eyes or eyelid inflammation called blepharitis. Sometimes a blood vessel might burst below the conjunctiva, or thin layer covering the white of the eye.

Doctors say that patients should seek medical help if the red eyes present alongside severe eye pain, blurred vision, vision loss, sensitivity to light or headache, nausea or vomiting. Also look out for thick discharge from the eyes, or unequal pupil size.

Otherwise, the following steps should help manage red eyes.

Senior consultant ophthalmologist Jay Siak of Eagle Eye Centre says that using lubricating eye drops four times a day or more can help to wash away allergens and keep the eye surface moist.

Look for preservative-free eye drops, as other over-the-counter products might end up drying out the eyes if used more than twice a day.

Over-the-counter allergy medication may also help people who know they tend to get red eyes during certain times, such as haze season. However, persistent redness and discharge from the eyes warrants a visit to the doctor.

Family physician Ding Si Yan, consultant and deputy head of NHG Hougang Polyclinic says: “When you look at screens for long periods of time, you might be so engrossed that you blink less. Your eyes dry out and can turn red.”

Consultant ophthalmologist Low Jin Rong of Asian Healthcare Specialists says that apart from redness, sufferers may feel a gritty sensation in the eyes and find that their vision fluctuates.

Blinking alleviates the symptoms, as does using eye drops. He recommends reducing screen time and taking frequent blink breaks.

Doctors generally recommend the ...