A red eye can come from simple irritation, dryness, allergy or conjunctivitis, but sometimes it needs faster assessment. The most useful questions are whether the eye hurts, whether light bothers it, whether vision is reduced and whether contact lenses are involved.
Common reasons#
If the eye itches, waters or has discharge, conjunctivitis is one possibility. If the eye feels dry after screen work, indoor heating or wind, dryness may be the issue. If both eyes itch during pollen season, allergy is often more likely.
What you can do at home#
Do not rub the eye. Wash your hands before touching the area and gently clean away any discharge with a clean damp cloth. Artificial tears can soothe dryness. If you wear contact lenses, take them out until the eye is completely calm.
When the eye is more concerning#
A bright red patch in the white of the eye can be a harmless small bleed under the conjunctiva, especially after coughing or rubbing. That is usually less worrying if vision is normal and there is no pain.
The picture changes if there is pain, clear light sensitivity, blurred vision, pressure, injury or chemical exposure.
When to seek care#
Seek urgent care if the eye hurts, light is strongly uncomfortable, vision worsens, the eye feels pressured, or symptoms started after an injury or chemical splash. Seek care also if a contact lens wearer has a painful red eye, or if the redness does not start to improve within a few days.
Further reading and sources#
Further reading: