I had bloodshot eyes for a while, at least 6 months or so. It seemed to be because my eyelids were weak and could neither open all the way nor could they close. There were times when I put a wet washcloth over my eyes because they hurt so much from not being able to close them all the way. I'm so glad I rarely get that trouble now, but your entry reminded me. I remember rubbing my eyes alot when they got itchy from not being closed all the way. I don't remember them getting worse after rubbing them though, so maybe you are experiencing something different.