When to See Your Eye Doctor About Redness

Red eyes can seem alarming, but they’re not always a cause for panic. From allergies to infections, several factors can lead to redness in your eyes. So, how do you know when to visit your eye doctor? We’ll break it down for you.

Our highly experienced team at Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, New York, is here to help you understand the common causes of eye redness and let you know when to seek professional care to help protect your vision and maintain your eye health. 

Here’s a guide to help you navigate when to make that important call.

Common causes of eye redness 

Before understanding when it’s time to visit our office, let’s uncover some of the most common causes of eye redness that are often harmless and temporary. Here are some triggers to keep in mind: 

Allergies 

Pollen, pet dander, and dust can all irritate your eyes, leading to redness, itching, and watering. 

Dry eyes 

When your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right kind of tears, they can become red and irritated. 

Fatigue 

Lack of sleep or prolonged screen time can strain your eyes, causing them to appear red. 

Contact lenses 

Wearing your contacts for too long or not cleaning them properly can lead to eye redness. 

Signs it’s time to visit our office

Although it’s easy to dismiss red eyes as a minor irritation, some symptoms point to a larger issue. Be sure to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following: 

Persistent redness

If your eye redness doesn’t improve after a few days, it’s time to consult with our team of experts. 

Pain

If the redness is accompanied by eye pain, this could indicate an infection or other serious condition. 

Vision changes 

Blurry vision, double vision, or a sudden loss of vision are all red flags that require immediate attention. 

Discharge 

Any discharge, especially if it’s yellow or green, could signal an infection like conjunctivitis. 

Light sensitivity 

If you’re suddenly sensitive to light, it could be a sign of an underlying problem, such as uveitis or a corneal ulcer. 

What to expect during your eye exam 

Eye exams for redness are typically straightforward and aim to identify the underlying cause of the issue. Here’s what you can expect: 

Medical history 

We ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any relevant medical history. 

Visual acuity test 

You’ll likely undergo a standard vision test to check for any changes in your eyesight. 

Eye examination 

We use a slit lamp to examine the front of your eyes, looking for signs of infection, inflammation, or other issues. 

Additional tests 

If necessary, we may perform additional tests, such as checking your eye pressure or taking a sample of any discharge. 

In the end, while eye redness is often harmless, it’s crucial to recognize when it might be a sign of something more serious so you can safeguard your overall health. Early intervention can make all the difference in protecting your vision.

If you’re ready to learn more, click here to set up an appointment with our team of experts today.