What causes a red eye?

• Allergies can cause itchy, red eyes that appear swollen, and usually an eye drop can be prescribed to help relieve the symptoms.
• A bacterial or viral infection on the outer surface of the eye is called conjunctivitis or more commonly, pink-eye. This disorder is often accompanied by mattering shut of the eye upon awakening, tearing and irritation during the day. Antibiotic eye drops are often prescribed for such a condition.
• A subconjunctival hemorrhage is usually the diagnosis when the white of the eye appears blood-red. It looks frightening, but usually it just means a blood vessel has broken on the surface of the eye, and it will take several days for the blood to reabsorb. This is often noticed after awakening, and may be caused by coughing or sneezing, and usually requires no treatment.
• Glaucoma or Iritis can also cause redness of the eye, and these conditions would need immediate treatment.

As you should now understand, a red eye can have many possible causes, so it is best to call us as soon as possible for the correct diagnosis and treatment.