Have you ever woken up to find one or both of your eyes looking red and bloodshot? While a little redness might not seem like a big deal, a persistent red eye can be a sign of an underlying health issue. It’s a common symptom, but it’s one you should never ignore.

What Causes a Red Eye?

The redness in your eye is caused by the dilation or swelling of tiny blood vessels on the surface of your eye. This can happen for many reasons, ranging from minor to severe.

Common, Less Serious Causes:

• Allergies: Pollen, dust, and pet dander can irritate your eyes, causing them to become red and itchy.
• Eye Strain: Spending too much time in front of a computer screen or reading in dim light can lead to eye fatigue and redness.
• Lack of Sleep: Not getting enough rest can make your eyes look tired and bloodshot.

More Serious Causes:

• Conjunctivitis (“Pink Eye”): This is an inflammation of the clear membrane that covers the white part of your eye. It can be caused by a virus or bacteria and is highly contagious.
• Corneal Ulcer: A sore on the cornea, often from an infection, can cause severe redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.
• Glaucoma: This is a serious condition caused by increased pressure inside the eye. An acute type of glaucoma can cause sudden, painful redness and needs immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While a red eye that is a result of a late night or a simple allergy might clear up on its own, you should seek professional help if the redness is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• Pain in the eye
• Vision changes, such as blurriness or a decrease in sight
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• A feeling of a foreign object in your eye
• Thick discharge from the eye
• The redness lasts longer than 24-48 hours

At El-Amin Ophthalmic Center, we have the advanced tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the cause of your red eye and provide the right treatment. Whether it’s a minor irritation or a serious condition, getting a timely professional check-up is the best way to protect your vision.