Cold symptoms with bloodshot eyes occur when a respiratory infection irritates your eyes, causing redness alongside congestion, coughing, or sore throat. This happens because your eyes and nose share drainage pathways.
When you have a cold, your body releases histamines to fight the infection. These chemicals cause blood vessels in your eyes to dilate, making them appear red., nasal congestion forces you to breathe through your mouth, drying out your eyes and worsening irritation.
The most common cause is a viral upper respiratory infection, like the common cold or flu. However, bloodshot eyes can also result from:
A study published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics found that 60% of patients with viral conjunctivitis also reported upper respiratory symptoms.
Most cases resolve within a week. See a doctor if your symptoms last longer or include:
These could indicate a more serious condition, such as bacterial conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers.
Many people assume bloodshot eyes during a cold are always harmless. While usually minor, they can sometimes signal a secondary infection. Another myth is that rubbing your eyes helps-it actually worsens irritation.
Sarah had a cold with congestion, sore throat, and red eyes. She assumed it was just part of her illness but noticed her vision blurring after three days. A visit to her doctor revealed bacterial conjunctivitis, which required antibiotics.