It is important to note that bloodshot eyes are quite common among children. Even though the appearance can be alarming, most of the underlying causes are not actually serious. The redness can be triggered by allergies, exposure to irritants as well as infection. A doctor should be consulted for proper diagnosis if the child has bloodshot eyes.
Conjunctivitis
Viral or bacterial infections can trigger conjunctivitis or pink eye which involves swelling of the thin membrane that covers the eye and interior of the eyelid. When it comes to viral conjunctivitis, it is considered as the most common form and might be linked with common cold.
A child might have bloodshot eyes accompanied by white or clear discharge and sand-like irritation or burning sensation. In most cases, only one is affected initially and can spread to the other eye 1-3 days later. The indications of bacterial conjunctivitis are similar except discharge that is usually thicker with white, yellow or green appearance.
Irritants
Certain irritants such as chlorine in swimming pool, pet dander, pollen or other small-sized particles can irritate the surface of the eye and result to redness. Extremely dry or cold air can also trigger irritation and dilation of the blood vessels in the eye.
If the child uses contact lenses, overuse can irritate the sclera or if a piece of debris ends up trapped beneath the lens, it can scratch the cornea that can lead to bloodshot eyes. In case only one eye is bloodshot, the cause might be the transfer of irritants from his/her hands.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage
When coughing or straining, it can cause the blood vessels in the eye to burst. In such circumstances, the redness will manifest as a single bloody patch in one eye. Even though this appears alarming, there is no cause for concern unless the child feels pain linked with the redness. The redness usually clears up without requiring treatment within 1-2 weeks.
When to consult a doctor
It is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor if the child sustained an injury that involves eye penetration or if complains of blurry vision and experiences severe eye pain, constant tearing, has cloudy spots on the cornea, appears confused, blinks continuously, avoids light or has a headache.
If the bloodshot eyes lasts for more than 1-2 days, has greenish or yellowish discharge or uses blood thinning medications, a doctor should be consulted.
Management of bloodshot eyes
In most cases, the doctor will prescribe an antihistamine, decongestant or topical lubricant to help ease the signs and symptoms of viral conjunctivitis. As for bacterial conjunctivitis, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic as drops or ointment. The medication can cause blurry vision for up to 20 minutes after the application. The treatment usually lasts for 7-10 days and if the child uses contact lenses, he/she must not use them during this period.