Red eye (Bloodshot Eye)

You have a painful red eye.

You’re experiencing other symptoms, in particular; a bloodshot eye and headaches, reduced vision, sensitivity to light, or feeling sick.

You recently injured your eye – especially if something has pierced your eye.

If your symptoms are becoming increasingly worse

Blepharitis:

A common condition which causes redness, swelling and irritation of the eyelids.

Anterior uveitis:

Also known as iritis Inflammation of the iris (the coloured part of the eye) which may be accompanied by eye pain, light sensitivity, floaters and/or blurred vision.

Corneal ulcers:

Corneal ulcers can cause redness, light sensitivity, and the feeling that something is in the eye. Severe cases can result in permanent vision loss if left untreated. Poor hygiene associated with contact lens wear may cause corneal ulcers.

Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma:

This type of glaucoma leads to a sudden increase in eye pressure resulting in redness, pain, nausea, haloes around lights, and blurred vision. Untreated, it can lead to permanent sight loss.

Scratched eye:

Redness and pain can be caused by foreign particles like grit getting into the eye. Optometrists can use a microscope to examine the front surface of the eye and potentially remove and debris.

Dry eyes:

Insufficient or poor‑quality tears cause discomfort, soreness, and redness. They’re usually easily treatable with eye drops and home remedies, such as hot compresses.

Stye:

Small, painful lumps that form either on or inside the eyelid, which can cause the eye itself to become watery and red.

Scleritis:

Scleritis is a form of eye inflammation associated with autoimmune disorders including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Scleritis is associated with a bloodshot, red, painful eye.

Redness:

Usually the first thing you’ll notice if you’ve woken up with a bloodshot eye. The white of your eye turns red or pink, either in a certain spot or all over. You may have a bloodshot eye on one side or in both eyes simultaneously.

Pain:

A painful bloodshot eye can range from minor soreness to a severe burning sensation.

Itching:

Feeling like you need to scratch your eye or eyelid to ease discomfort.

Swelling:

Your eyelid may feel puffy or tight, making it hard to open your eye and impacting your vision.

Grittiness:

Feeling like there’s something in your eye, even if you can’t visibly see anything in it.

Watery eyes:

When your eyes produce excess tears, commonly caused by dryness, irritation or blocked tear ducts.

Headaches:

Bloodshot eyes and headaches can be a sign of other underlying conditions, including eye strain.

Get enough sleep:

Finding that you regularly wake up with bloodshot eyes? Tiredness commonly leads to dry, red eyes, so the redness could be an indicator that you’re not getting enough sleep. Try to aim for between 7 and 9 hours each night.

Take regular breaks from screens:

If you find staring at computer, tv or phone screens for too long irritates your eyes, take time away from them to give your eyes a rest.

Drink enough water:

Getting enough water is as important to our eye health as it is almost every other part of our bodies. Dehydration can lead to decreased tear production and irritation, so be sure to keep well hydrated throughout the day.

Regular eye tests:

Having regular eye examinations will help to identify any eye strain issues and other eye conditions that might be irritating your eyes.