Red eyes can be unsettling, especially when they appear suddenly. While often harmless, they may indicate an underlying condition that requires professional care. At Southern Focus Vision Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the many causes of red, irritated eyes. Here’s a closer look at the most common culprits—and what you can do about them.
1. Dry Eye Syndrome
More than 16 million Americans suffer from dry eye disease, a condition in which the eyes don’t produce enough quality tears. Causes range from aging and medication use to environmental factors and screen exposure.
Common symptoms:
- Redness and irritation
- Burning or gritty sensation
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Excessive tearing (a reflex response to dryness)
Treatment options:
Mild cases may respond well to artificial tears, while moderate to severe cases often benefit from prescription anti-inflammatory drops, punctal plugs (to conserve tears), or warm compresses to unblock oil glands. Your optometrist will tailor a treatment plan based on your tear composition and gland function.
2. Infectious Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis—commonly called pink eye—is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. It is highly contagious and often spreads through hand-to-eye contact, contaminated surfaces, or shared personal items.
Symptoms include:
- Red, swollen eyes
- Watery or yellow-green discharge
- Crusting of lashes
- Itching or burning
Treatment options:
Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotic eye drops, while viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within a week or two. Cold compresses and lubricating drops can provide symptom relief.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
Eye redness during allergy season is a hallmark sign of allergic conjunctivitis. This condition occurs when allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or mold trigger the immune system to release histamines.
Symptoms:
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Sneezing or nasal congestion
Treatment options:
Cold compresses, antihistamine eye drops, and oral allergy medications can reduce inflammation. For contact lens wearers with giant papillary conjunctivitis, switching lenses or cleaning solutions may help. In chronic cases, your doctor may refer you for allergy testing or immunotherapy.
4. Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
If you notice a bright red patch on the white of your eye, it may be due to a subconjunctival hemorrhage—a harmless rupture of a tiny blood vessel, often caused by sneezing, coughing, or minor trauma.
Key facts:
- Typically painless
- Doesn’t affect vision
- Resolves on its own in 1–2 weeks
No treatment is required, but if redness persists beyond two weeks, it’s important to consult your optometrist.
5. Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a chronic condition involving inflammation of the eyelids, usually due to clogged oil glands, bacterial overgrowth, or skin conditions like rosacea.
Symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, or crusty eyelids
- Burning or itching
- Blurry vision
- Foreign body sensation
Treatment options:
Daily lid hygiene is key. Use warm compresses and a gentle cleanser (such as diluted baby shampoo or specialized lid scrubs). Prescription drops or ointments may be needed for more severe or recurring cases.
When to See an Optometrist
Red eyes can range from a mild inconvenience to a sign of something more serious. If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by vision changes or pain, schedule an eye exam immediately. The team at Southern Focus Vision Center is here to help you see clearly and comfortably—every day.