How to Clear Red Eyes Without Eye Drops

Red or bloodshot eyes can be the result of allergies, illness, injury, presence of foreign particles, strain, lack of sleep or infections. Home care options alleviate the redness and soothe red eyes. Eye drops are often prescribed, but if you'd rather not use them, try other remedies and treatments to find the option that fits your needs. Always see your doctor to determine underlying causes and to rule out any serious disorders.

Things You'll Need

• Ice gel pack
• Heat gel pack
• Antihistamine
• Humidifier

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor for a professional diagnosis. Your doctor will be able to assess your symptoms to determine the best treatment options.

• 2

  Place an ice pack on your closed eyes to reduce swelling and redness. This treatment works well on strained eyes. The cold shrinks blood vessels and reduces inflammation. Hold the gel pack in place for 10 minutes at time several times throughout the day.

• 3

  Hold a heat pack on your eye area for 10 minutes. This technique works well on tired eyes. Repeat several times each day until the redness subsides.

• 4

  Take an antihistamine as directed. This will reduce the redness in your eyes. Avoid irritants such as dust, smoke, pollen and animal hair. Redness may be occurring due to an allergic reaction, so, if possible, avoid the allergen.

• 5

  Use a humidifier in your bedroom. Heating and air conditioning units can cause your home to become very dry which, in turn, causes red eyes. Replace lost moisture with a humidifier.

• 6

  Rest your eyes. If you have been using the computer, reading or driving for a long period of time, stop the activity and allow your eyes to rest for several hours. While performing the activity, take mini breaks by glancing away from the screen or paper for 30 seconds every 10 minutes.

• 7

  Rinse your eyes with warm water to remove any foreign particles. Splash the water into your open eye for about 30 seconds to sufficiently clean the area.

• 8

  Sleep enough each night. Get at least eight hours of sleep to reduce redness.