Redness in the Eyes: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

At Emirates Hospital, we understand that red eyes can be caused by irritation, infection, or underlying health conditions. It may be accompanied by itching, pain, swelling, discharge, or vision changes. Identifying the cause early is essential to prevent complications and protect eye health.

Causes of Redness in the Eyes

Eye redness can result from environmental, infectious, or medical conditions. Recognizing the cause helps determine the most effective treatment.

• Allergies: Exposure to pollen, dust, smoke, or pet dander can cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Bacterial, viral, or allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva can lead to red, swollen eyes with discharge.
• Dry Eye Syndrome: Reduced tear production can cause redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation.
• Eye Strain & Fatigue: Prolonged screen time, lack of sleep, or excessive reading can cause temporary eye redness.
• Foreign Objects & Irritants: Dust, smoke, chemicals, or contact lens overuse can result in eye redness and discomfort.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea (middle layer of the eye) can cause severe redness, pain, and light sensitivity.
• Glaucoma (Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma): A serious condition causing increased eye pressure, leading to red eyes, blurred vision, and severe pain—requires emergency treatment.
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid margins can cause red, irritated eyes with crusting.
• Corneal Ulcers or Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can damage the cornea, causing intense redness, pain, and light sensitivity.

Diagnosis of Redness in the Eyes

A detailed eye examination helps determine the cause of redness and guides the appropriate treatment.

• Slit-Lamp Examination: Assesses eye structures, corneal health, and signs of infection.
• Tear Production Test: Evaluates dry eye syndrome.
• Allergy Testing: Identifies specific allergens causing eye irritation.
• Intraocular Pressure Measurement: Checks for glaucoma and eye pressure abnormalities.

Treatment for Redness in the Eyes

Treatment focuses on relieving irritation, reducing inflammation, and addressing underlying conditions.

• Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops help relieve dryness and irritation.
• Antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops manage allergic reactions and eye redness.
• Antibiotic or antiviral treatments treat bacterial or viral eye infections.
• Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene help reduce inflammation in conditions like blepharitis.
• Emergency glaucoma treatment may be required for sudden, severe redness and vision changes.

Related Treatments

• Dry Eye Syndrome