Red eye is a condition where the sclera has become bloodshot. The redness may take the form of various squiggly pink or red lines or look diffusely red on the white of the eye. Sufferers may experience irritation, burning, itching, dryness and pain. This eye condition can also be associated with light sensitivity, watery eyes, blurry vision and discharge.
Read on as Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic discusses what causes red eyes and when you need to seek treatment from an optical care provider.
The dilation of tiny blood vessels located between the sclera and the overlying clear conjunctiva of the eye causes the eyes to appear red. Usually, the majority of these small blood vessels are invisible. However, they can become swollen due to environmental- or lifestyle-related factors or eye problems.
Common causes of red eyes include allergies, eye fatigue, long-term wear of contact lenses and eye infections like pink eye or conjunctivitis. In some cases, red eyes can indicate a more severe eye condition or disease, such as uveitis or glaucoma.
See your eye doctor immediately if your eyes are seeping or encrusted with yellow, brown or green mucus, as this could be a sign of an eye infection that requires medical treatment. You should also seek medical care from an optometrist if you’re experiencing pain around the eyes, unusual light sensitivity, fever or overall sickness, and if the redness or discomfort lasts for more than a week.
Over-the-counter artificial tears and antihistamine eye drops may provide some relief if you have seasonal allergies. You can also place a cool compress on your closed eyes multiple times a day. Don’t touch your eyes unless you’ve just washed your hands and make sure your linens are clean.
You can rely on Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic for your eye care needs. Call us at (425) 485-0430 or complete our online form to request an appointment. We assist patients in Bothell, WA.