[Andrew Steer]

Andrew Steer  asked the Naked Scientists:
   Hi Chris,

When we are tired, possibly on the day following a bad or interrupted
night's sleep, as well as being generally a bit groggy/irritable, why do we
principally feel the tiredness in our eyes?

The eyes may be a bit dry, bloodshot, the eyelids "heavy" (can't keep 'em open) - we are familiar with the symptoms.

Is the effect of lack of sleep on the eyes direct or indirect?
Regards,

Andrew

What do you think?

[Chemistry4me]

Is the effect of lack of sleep on the eyes direct or indirect?

Most likely yes.

[Chemistry4me]

Bloodshot eyes occur when the tiny blood vessels on the surface of the eye become inflamed in response to insufficient amounts of oxygen in the cornea or tissues covering the eyes. Eyes can also appear swollen, watery and tired-looking. Bloodshot eyes can occur in adults and children and are often attributed to poor sleep, allergies or an underlying problem.

http://www.herbalremedies.com/bloodshoteyes.html#TOP

What are the main causes?

-Pollution - exhaust fumes, smoke, dust and chemicals can all irritate the eyes making them red and bloodshot

-Swimming - The chlorine used in swimming pools can be particularly irritating to your eyes -Staring at a computer screen for long periods can cause eye strain which in turn can lead to a bloodshot appearance.

-Staring at a computer screen for long periods can cause eye strain which in turn can lead to a bloodshot appearance

-Lack of sleep - When we are tired our eyes can look bloodshot, particularly problematic the morning after a late night!

http://www.optrex.co.uk/eye_conditions/bloodshot_red_eyes.php