From the Research
The best initial treatment for a unilateral bloodshot eye is typically conservative management with artificial tears and time. For mild cases, preservative-free artificial tears like Refresh or Systane can be used 4-6 times daily to lubricate the eye and reduce irritation. Most subconjunctival hemorrhages resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks without specific treatment. During this time, avoid rubbing the eye and consider taking a break from contact lenses if you wear them. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help if there's mild discomfort. If the bloodshot eye is accompanied by pain, vision changes, light sensitivity, or discharge, seek immediate medical attention as these symptoms suggest a more serious condition like acute glaucoma, uveitis, or infection. The conservative approach works because subconjunctival hemorrhages occur when small blood vessels break under the conjunctiva, creating the red appearance, but the blood is gradually reabsorbed by the body through natural healing processes.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the best initial treatment for a unilateral bloodshot eye include:
- The cause of the bloodshot eye, which could be due to a subconjunctival hemorrhage, conjunctivitis, or other conditions 1, 2
- The presence of symptoms such as pain, vision changes, or discharge, which may indicate a more serious condition 2, 3
- The use of topical antibiotics, which may be beneficial in reducing the duration of infectious conjunctivitis symptoms 4, 5
- The importance of conservative management with artificial tears and time, which can help to reduce irritation and promote healing 1, 2
It's also important to note that the use of topical antibiotics may be associated with a modestly improved chance of resolution compared to placebo, but the evidence is not strong enough to support their routine use in all cases of unilateral bloodshot eye 4. Additionally, artificial tears have been shown to reduce conjunctivitis symptom duration, and may be a useful adjunct to conservative management 5.
Overall, the best initial treatment for a unilateral bloodshot eye will depend on the underlying cause and the presence of any symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition. A conservative approach with artificial tears and time is often the best initial treatment, but topical antibiotics may be considered in certain cases. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.