What causes engorged blood vessels in the eyes?
1. Allergic reactions: When the body encounters an allergen, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, the immune system releases histamine, which causes inflammation and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). This can lead to engorged blood vessels in the eyes, resulting in redness and swelling.
2. Eye infections (conjunctivitis): Bacterial or viral infections of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye) can also cause engorged blood vessels. This is because the infection causes inflammation in the conjunctiva, leading to vasodilation and redness.
3. Dry eyes: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can cause the eyes to become irritated and inflamed. This can result in engorged blood vessels, as the body tries to increase blood flow to the area to promote healing.
4. Blepharitis: This is a condition that affects the eyelids, causing inflammation and sometimes infection. Blepharitis can lead to engorged blood vessels around the eyelids and the edges of the eyes.
5. Styes and chalazia: Styes are small, red, painful bumps on the eyelid that are caused by a bacterial infection. Chalazia are similar to styes, but they are caused by a blockage of the meibomian glands, which produce oil that helps to lubricate the eye. Both styes and chalazia can cause engorged blood vessels in the affected eye.
6. Corneal abrasions: Scratches or injuries to the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) can cause engorged blood vessels in the affected eye. This is a result of the body's inflammatory response to the injury, as the blood vessels dilate to allow more blood and immune cells to reach the area.
7. Iritis (uveitis): This is an inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye. Uveitis can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune diseases, infections, or injuries. It can lead to engorged blood vessels in the affected eye, as well as pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
8. Glaucoma: This is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually as a result of increased pressure within the eye. In some cases, glaucoma can cause engorged blood vessels in the eye due to the increased pressure.
9. Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure can affect the smallest blood vessels or capillaries, weakening their walls and making them more likely to leak fluid and blood cells. This leakage causes redness and the appearance of engorged blood vessels, and can affect both the whites of the eyes and the lids.
10. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), including those in the eyes. This can make the blood vessels appear engorged and make the eyes more prone to redness.