Red Eye

What is “Red Eye”?

Red eye is a common condition where the white of the eye (sclera) becomes reddened or bloodshot. Though it can be alarming, red eye is often not serious and resolves on its own. However, it can sometimes be a sign of a more significant eye or health condition.

A closeup of a person's eye

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Symptoms of Red Eye

Symptoms of red eye can vary, but typically include:

  • Eye redness
  • Irritation or discomfort
  • Increased tear production
  • Sensitivity to light

In some cases, symptoms might be minimal, presenting only visible redness without discomfort.

Common Causes

Red eye can result from many factors, ranging from benign to serious. Common causes include:

  • Allergies
  • Infections such as conjunctivitis
  • Dry eye syndrome
  • Exposure to smoke or environmental pollutants

It’s also possible for a subconjunctival haemorrhage (a small blood vessel bursts within the eye) to cause a bright red blotch.

Red Eye Treatment Options

Red eye typically clears up on its own within a few days. However, for cases involving severe allergies, your optometrist may recommend antihistamines or steroid eye drops to alleviate symptoms. If the red eye is due to a bacterial infection, you may require an antibiotics prescription to effectively treat the condition.

Many cases of red eye can be managed at home with simple remedies like using artificial tears or applying warm compresses. However, we recommend you avoid self-prescribing eye drops without professional advice, as some may aggravate the condition if not used correctly.

When to Seek Professional Help

You should book an appointment with an Opticare optometrist if:

  • Redness persists for more than a few days.
  • You experience significant pain or vision changes.
  • Symptoms worsen or do not improve with basic home care.

Seek Immediate medical attention if:

  • You are also experiencing a severe headache.
  • You also feel nauseous.
  • You experience visual disturbances like halos around lights.
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If the red eye is caused by an infection, it is important to avoid sharing face cloths or towels, and to refrain from touching your eyes to prevent spreading the infection to others.

Experiencing Persistent Red Eye?

While red eye is usually nothing to worry about, it’s important not to overlook symptoms that could indicate a more serious condition. Don’t wait to get your eyes checked if you’re concerned about persistent red eye.

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Book an appointment with one of our skilled Opticare optometrists today and ensure your eye health is in the best condition. Consulting with a professional is the best way to ensure that you receive proper care and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Eye

Red eye can be contagious if it’s caused by infections like viral or bacterial conjunctivitis. To prevent spreading the infection, it’s crucial to practice good hygiene. Make sure to wash your hands frequently, avoid sharing towels, and do not use others’ eye makeup.

Yes, children are prone to getting red eye, commonly due to viral conjunctivitis, which spreads easily in places like schools and daycare centres. It’s important for parents to keep an eye on any symptoms of red eye in their children and consult a paediatrician or optometrist if symptoms appear.

Before trying any home remedies, it’s important to note that you should avoid self-prescribing eye drops without professional advice, as some may worsen the condition if not used correctly. However, warm compresses can alleviate red eye symptoms, particularly if they’re caused by allergies. Just ensure to use clean cloths for each application to prevent any further irritation.

The duration of red eye will vary depending on what’s causing it – normally, it will go away on its own in a day or two if you take good care of it. But if it’s caused by something like bacterial conjunctivitis, it might stick around longer and need some help from antibiotics to clear up.

Wearing contact lenses can contribute to red eye, particularly if the lenses are not cleaned properly, worn for extended periods, or if they are not well-fitted. It’s crucial for contact lens wearers to follow proper lens hygiene and regularly consult their optometrist to avoid complications.

Environmental factors such as exposure to smoke, air pollution, and the extended use of digital devices can all contribute to red eye. These can irritate the eyes or exacerbate existing conditions such as dry eye, leading to inflammation and redness.