Everyone occasionally gets red eyes caused by an identifiable problem like lack of sleep. However, red eyes are also one of the earliest signs of serious eye conditions. The optometrists at Eye Q Optique protect your vision by getting to the source of the redness and providing customized treatments. If your red eye doesn't improve or you have other symptoms, it's time to schedule an eye exam. Call the office in Buffalo Grove or the Tri-Taylor or Near West Side neighborhoods of Chicago, Illinois, or book an appointment online today.

What conditions cause a red eye?

While pink eye refers to one condition, conjunctivitis, red eye represents a symptom caused by many possible eye problems.

You develop a red eye when small blood vessels in the eye become enlarged or inflamed. That can happen due to:

• Eye infections (e.g., conjunctivitis, uveitis, scleritis, blepharitis)
• Eye allergies
• Dry eye
• Glaucoma
• Pterygium
• Corneal abrasion
• Herpes exposure
• Overexposure to sunlight (photokeratitis)
• Contact lens-related infection (keratitis)
• Contact lens irritation
• Dry air and air pollution
• Digital eye strain

A long list of environmental irritants leads to red eyes, including smoke, dust, pollen, and chlorine (in swimming pools).

What other symptoms accompany red eye?

Red eye may appear in one or both eyes. The change may occur gradually as an underlying condition develops or suddenly if your allergies flare or you suffer an injury.

The eye conditions responsible for red eyes often cause other symptoms. You may experience:

• Pain
• Itching
• Burning
• Dryness
• Irritation
• Watery eyes
• Blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light

Bloodshot eyes may not have any symptoms other than redness.

When should I seek help for red eyes?

Seek immediate help from Eye Q Optique when you:

• Develop sudden redness
• Have sudden vision changes
• Have a sticky discharge
• Suffer an eye injury
• Have swelling in or around your eye
• Can't open your eye (or keep it open)
• Have redness that doesn't improve in several days

You should get emergency eye care when you have severe eye pain or eye symptoms together with nausea, vomiting, or a severe headache.

How are red eyes treated?

Your Eye Q Optique provider does a comprehensive eye exam to identify the reason for your eye redness. Your individualized treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms, but the first line of treatment includes topical medications such as eye drops, creams, or ointments. 

For example, you may need medicated eye treatments that reduce inflammation, add moisture, or eliminate a bacterial infection. Your provider only recommends more invasive treatments when needed to protect your vision.

To get relief from ongoing red eyes, call Eye Q Optique or book an appointment online today