Redness of the eye may be a possible Glaucoma symptom
Redness of the eyes is a possible Glaucoma symptom
That the eye of the affected person appears reddened or irritated. The redness can vary from slight red spots to a general area-wide redness of the conjunctiva, the clear layer that covers the eye and the inner part of the eyelids.
Caution when assessing redness of the eye as a Symptom of Glaucoma
Redness of the eye is a possible Glaucoma symptom, although it does not occur in all sufferers and may also depend on other factors.
In some cases, the redness may be caused by eye strain or other eye problems and is not directly related to the diagnosis Glaucoma.
Various factors favour reddening of the eye
Redness of the eye can be caused by several factors, including dilatation of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva.
If the intraocular pressure is elevated and Glaucoma progresses, this can lead to poor blood flow to the optic nerve, which in turn can affect the blood vessels in the conjunctiva.
This can cause the blood vessels to dilate and the conjunctiva to appear red.
Factors that can also promote reddening of the eye
They must be distinguished from Glaucoma symptoms – but can overlap with them.:
Increased intraocular pressure
Increased pressure inside the eye, as is the case with Glaucoma, can lead to redness of the eye.
Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva)
Infections or allergic reactions can inflame the conjunctiva, the clear layer that covers the eye and the inner part of the eyelids, and cause redness.
Objects in the eye
Particles such as dust, dirt or foreign objects that get into the eye can cause irritation and redness.
Eye dryness
Dry eyes can cause the conjunctiva to become irritated and cause redness.
Allergies
Reactions to allergens such as pollen, animal hair or dust mites can cause inflammation of the conjunctiva and lead to red eyes.
Eye strain
Working at the computer for long periods of time, reading intensively or watching television can strain the eyes and cause temporary redness.
Contact lenses
Wearing contact lenses, especially for long periods of time or in combination with inadequate care, can irritate the eyes and cause redness.
Eye injuries
Injuries or blows to the eye can cause inflammation and redness.
Environmental factors
Exposure to smoke, chemicals or other irritants may irritate the eyes and cause redness.
Infections
Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis caused by bacteria or viruses, can cause redness of the eye.
Superimposition of the Glaucoma symptom redness of the eye with other Glaucoma symptoms
The redness of the eye may in some cases overlap with other symptoms such as:
Important in this context: These Glaucoma symptoms do not always have to occur together – but they can occur together. The severity and occurrence of Glaucoma symptoms can vary from person to person.
