Red Eyes (Aankhon ki Laali): Causes, Eye Drops and When to See a Doctor

Reviewed by Dr Asma

Almost everyone in Pakistan has woken up with red, itchy or watery eyes at some point. Dust, smog, long hours on a phone, a family member with an eye infection, or a change of season can all do it. The tricky part is that red eyes are a symptom, not a diagnosis. Two people can look exactly the same in the mirror and need completely different treatment. This guide explains the common causes, how the main types of eye drops differ, and the signs that mean you should stop self-treating.

Why do eyes turn red?

The white of the eye is covered by tiny blood vessels. When the eye is irritated, those vessels widen and the eye looks pink or red. The most common reasons are:

• Allergy: itching is the main clue. Both eyes are usually affected, with watery discharge and often a blocked or runny nose. Dust, pollen and smog are the usual triggers.
• Viral conjunctivitis: watery discharge, a gritty feeling, and it often follows a cold. It spreads quickly in homes and schools.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis: thicker yellow or green discharge, and eyelids that stick together after sleep.
• Dry eye and screen strain: burning, tiredness and a sandy feeling after long phone or laptop use or in air conditioned rooms.
• Irritants: smoke, chlorine, dust, or rubbing the eyes with dirty hands.
• Contact lens problems: wearing lenses too long or sleeping in them can inflame or even infect the eye.

Types of eye drops and what they are for

Walking into a pharmacy, you will see many bottles that look alike. They do very different jobs, and using the wrong one can delay recovery.

Lubricating (artificial tear) drops help with dryness and screen strain. They are the gentlest option and suit most mild irritation. Antihistamine or anti allergy drops calm itching caused by allergy. Antibiotic drops are for bacterial infections only, and they do nothing for viral or allergic eyes. Steroid drops reduce strong inflammation but must only be used under a doctor, because careless use can raise eye pressure and make some infections far worse. Decongestant or whitening drops shrink the blood vessels and make the eye look white for a short time, but regular use can cause rebound redness, so they are not a cure.

You can browse the range in our Eye Care category. Prescription only items can be ordered by sending your doctor’s slip through the upload prescription page.

Simple things you can do at home

For mild redness without pain or vision change, a few habits help while the eye settles:

• Wash your hands before and after touching your face or eyes.
• Use a clean, cool, damp cloth over closed eyes for comfort. Use a fresh cloth each time.
• Stop wearing contact lenses until the eye is completely normal, and throw away the lens case or replace the solution if you suspect infection.
• Avoid eye makeup and do not share towels, pillowcases or eye drops.
• Follow the 20-20-20 habit for screens: every 20 minutes, look at something far away for 20 seconds.
• Do not put home remedies like rose water, tea bags, milk or spices into the eye. They can bring in germs and cause damage.

Using eye drops the right way

Even the right drop does little if it is used badly. Wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull the lower lid gently to make a small pocket, and let one drop fall in without touching the tip to the eye or eyelashes. Close the eye for a minute and press lightly at the inner corner to keep the drop from draining away. If you use two different drops, wait a few minutes between them. Write the date you opened the bottle, because most bottles should be thrown away after about a month, or sooner if the label says so. Our guide on how to read a medicine label shows where to find expiry and batch details.

Red flags: see a doctor the same day

Some eye problems can damage vision if they are missed. Get medical help quickly if you notice any of these:

• Real eye pain, not just irritation
• Blurred vision, halos around lights, or sudden vision loss
• Strong sensitivity to light
• Redness after an injury, or something stuck in the eye
• A newborn or small baby with red or sticky eyes
• Redness that has not improved after two to three days
• Redness in a contact lens wearer with pain or discharge

What to ask your doctor

It helps to go with a few questions ready. Is this allergic, viral or bacterial? Do I need antibiotic drops, or will it clear on its own? How long should I use the drops, and what should I do if I miss a dose? Is it safe to keep wearing lenses? When can my child go back to school? Having clear answers prevents you from stopping early or using leftover drops from an old illness.

Frequently asked questions

Is red eye always conjunctivitis?

No. Allergy, dryness, irritation and more serious conditions can look similar. If there is pain or vision change, do not assume it is simple conjunctivitis.

Can I use leftover antibiotic drops from last time?

It is not a good idea. The drops may be expired or contaminated, and the new problem may not be bacterial at all.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Viral and bacterial types spread easily through hands, towels and shared items. Allergic redness does not spread. Good hand washing is the best protection.

Are whitening eye drops safe for daily use?

They are meant only for occasional short use. Daily use can cause rebound redness and hide a problem that needs treatment.

Can smog cause red eyes?

Yes. Smoke and fine particles irritate the eye surface. Our smog protection guide for Punjab families has practical tips for the season.

Important note

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any eye drop or medicine, especially for children, pregnant women and contact lens wearers.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any treatment.