WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT CHRONIC RED EYES: “He recommends against over-the-counter eye drops designed to relieve redness. These will constrict the blood vessels and reduce redness temporarily, but the blood vessels will dilate after the effect of the drops wears off. If used chronically, these drops may cause more of a ‘rebound’ redness because of the constant constricting and dilating of the vessels.” Like nose sprays, these are best reserved for emergency situations, not regular use.