Last updated on June 25th, 2025 at 12:52 pm
If you’ve ever woken up, rubbed your eyes, and then looked in the mirror asking yourself, “Why are my eyes red?” then this article is for you. Read below to learn about the common reasons your eyes may be red, common treatments that address how to get rid of red eyes, and some eye health supplements that may help.
Why are My Eyes Red?
There could be many reasons why your eyes are red, but here are several common reasons. (Source 1, 2)
- Dry eye is a condition that may be a result of a problem with producing tears or your tears evaporating too fast.
- Pink eye infection, which can be a result of a virus or bacterial infection, leads to an inflammation of the lining of your eyelid and the white of your eye.
- Allergies, usually caused by pollen or other environmental triggers, can cause itchy, watery, and red eyes and typically affect both eyes.
- Broken blood vessels can be a result of pressure on the body such as a strong sneeze, heavy lifting, hard or chronic vomiting, or rubbing your eye a little too hard.
- Inflammation of the eye in conditions like episcleritis (inflammation of the thin layer of clear tissue on top of the white part of your eye, or sclera), keratitis (inflammation of cornea), blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid), etc. can cause redness and irritation of the eye.
- Environmental triggers like smoke or dust can cause redness of the eyes.
So, to answer the question of “Why are my eyes red?” most accurately, you will need to visit a doctor that can perform tests to determine the cause. Only then will you be able to identify what treatment will work to rid your eyes of redness.
How to Get Rid of Red Eyes
Once you and your doctor have figured out what is causing your red eyes, then you can find a treatment that will help. If cool compresses, over-the-counter eye drops like artificial tears, or eyelid washes are not helping, then read below to find out how to get rid of red eyes, depending on the cause. (1, 3, 4)
- Steroid or antibiotic drops, pills, or topical treatments may help treat certain infections or inflammation in the eye.
- Antihistamines or decongestants can help with treating allergies in the eyes.
- Prescription eye drops may help treat some cases of dry eye, glaucoma, and allergies.
Natural Supplements to Help Relieve Red Eyes
The following eye health supplements contain compounds that could help relieve inflammation in your body and could help you relieve the cause of your red eyes over time.
Nordic Naturals ProMacular Defense combines the retinal carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin along with the potent antioxidant astaxanthin to provide comprehensive support for long-term vision health. Nordic Naturals ProMacular Defense works by helping to support the reduction of oxidative stress in the retina using clinically studied doses of the carotenoid pigments needed for ocular health and visual function.
These small, easy-to-swallow softgels are non-GMO and third-party tested to provide the purest and most potent supplement you can find to help protect your eyes against blue light exposure from digital devices and the sun. Just one softgel daily of Nordic Naturals ProMacular Defense can provide you with long-term macular health so you see the world through your healthiest eyes.
Ortho Molecular Natural D-Hist is a unique supplement that combines a targeted blend of flavonoids, antioxidants, proteolytic enzymes and botanicals to provide comprehensive support for seasonal allergies and red eye caused by common environmental allergens. Ortho Molecular Natural D-Hist is free from common food allergens as well as any artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors. Just two capsules three times daily for about 7 to 10 days of Ortho Molecular Natural D-Hist can provide baseline treatment to help support respiratory and sinus health. Then take just two capsules daily for maintenance thereafter to lower your risk of allergy symptoms.
Codeage Eyes Vitamins+ is a blend of vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, the eye health antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin, and bilberry, among others to support healthy vision and eye health. Codeage Eyes Vitamins+, free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives as well as starch, yeast, and gluten, is also third-party tested and made in a cGMP-certified facility for your safety. Not to mention that this supplement contains plant-based vegan omega-3s from algae and plant-based vegan vitamin D3 5000 IU from wild-harvested lichen. Codeage Eyes Vitamins+ can help your eyes feel their best in just two capsules daily.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
