What causes an eye to become red and how can it be treated?

Redness occurs when the blood vessels in the white‑coloured portion of the eye, called the sclera, expand. If the redness occurs in small, localized areas, this may sometimes occur as a result of injury. If the entire sclera appears red, this may be due to an infection, allergy, glaucoma or simply fatigue. Treatment for red eye depends on the underlying cause, so it’s best to seek care from your optometrist to determine its cause and advise you on any treatment.

Red eyes | Specsavers CA

What are red eyes?

If your eyes appear more red than normal, this can be a sign of irritation, inflammation, or infection. Red eyes can be a sign of a more serious condition if you also experience pain and increased light sensitivity in the eye.

Symptoms

Eye redness around the eyes is the primary symptom of this condition.

It may be a more serious case of red eyes if you also experience:

Pain in the eyes
Decreased vision
Sensitivity to light
Headaches
Nausea

Common causes

Painless red eyes are most likely caused by minor eye problems, such as eyelid inflammation or a ruptured small blood vessel. In these cases, red eyes don't affect your vision and usually resolve on their own within a week or two.

Red eyes that are accompanied by eye pain and/or sensitivity to light could be caused by:

Inflammation of the iris (the colored part of the eye)
Glaucoma
Inflammation and/or infection of the cornea (the front surface of the eye)
Scratches or foreign objects in the eye

Treatment

Please seek care from your optometrist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

Next steps

We want to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible. If your optometrist detects any signs of an eye condition during your comprehensive eye exam, they will determine an appropriate management plan that suits your needs.

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Reviewed by Dr. Richard Cowles

Dr. Richard Cowles is a Doctor of Optometry in Alberta, practicing at Sherwood Park Mall. He is a member of the Alberta College of Optometrists and is the current Past President of the Alberta Association of Optometrists. Dr. Cowles is passionate about helping patients to solve their visual concerns.

Noticed a change in your eyesight?

If you have any concerns about your eye health, contact or visit your local optometrist immediately – even if you do not have an appointment.