Red Eye

red eye

The redness associated with “red eye” is usually caused by dilated or swollen blood vessels. As a result, the surface of the eye looks bloodshot. In contrast to vision problems or pain in the eye, red eye is often less of a concern. However, there are times when red eye may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Causes of Red Eye

When the blood vessels running over the surface of the white part of the eye (sclera) become swollen, the eyes look red or bloodshot. This can be caused by:

  • Acute glaucoma, a medical emergency in which a sudden increase in eye pressure causes severe pain and vision problems
  • Colds or allergies
  • Dryness of the eyes
  • Dust or other small particles in the eye
  • Exposure to chemicals, such as in a chlorine swimming pool
  • Infection
  • Injury, such as scratches of the outer layer of the eye (cornea)
  • Subconjunctival hemorrhage, which is caused by a broken blood vessel on the surface of the eye, often after coughing or straining
  • Sun overexposure

Red eye caused by inflammation of infection may occur along with discharge, itching, pain or vision problems. Several conditions can cause this, such as:

  • Blepharitis, which is characterized by inflammation or swelling of the edge of the eyelids
  • Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which is characterized by infection or swelling of the layer of clear tissue that covers both the surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids (conjunctiva)
  • Corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea that are often caused by a serious viral or bacterial infection
  • Uveitis, which is inflammation of the uvea, the part of the eye that includes the iris

When to See an Eye Doctor

Short periods of red eye that happen occasionally are not usually a problem. They may clear up on their own after resting your eyes or avoiding anything that was irritating them.

However, red eye that continues for longer periods or occurs alongside vision problems or pain in the eye may be a sign of a more serious problem. Contact your eye doctor if you experience any of the following:

  • Discharge from one or both eyes
  • Minor vision changes
  • Pain in the eye
  • Redness that lasts longer than one or two days

Seek immediate medical help for any of the following:

  • Being unable to open your eye or keep it open
  • Feeling like a foreign object is in your eye
  • Loss of vision
  • Puncture wound to the eye
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Severe eye pain, headache, nausea or sensitivity to bright lights

If you are experiencing long-lasting red eye or red eye combined with any of the symptoms listed above, call us today to schedule an appointment, so we can assess your eye health and provide any necessary treatment options.

Contact us to request an appointment today.

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  • I've been a patient of Dr. Nelson for many years and he is absolutely amazing. I am grateful that he uses state-of-the-art tools to measure changes in my eye health. His advice is spot on for caring for my eyes and his prices make it affordable to do so. I highly recommend you schedule your next appointment here

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  • Efficient and courteous service with a sense of belonging to a family. I have had to wear prescription lenses for most of my life. Never, has anyone ever taken the time to explain what happens to our eyes as we age, why and HOW we see floaters (and with the latest technology used in Dr. Nelson's office - to show you these things and so much more.) and other retinal issues if they exist. The latest technology used in Dr. Nelson's office is non-invasive and amazing to literally see the inside of y

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  • I've seen Dr. Nelson for many years for my eye care before he opened the new practice in Cottage Grove. I appreciate how very thorough he is and how he takes the time to explain any changes in my vision etc. He and his staff are always very kind and friendly and they go the extra mile to help! I liked that Cottage Grove Eye Care was really easy to find...and I like the space and the fact that they have a large selection of cool frames. Would highly recommend it. Nice to have someone you can trus

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Monday
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Tuesday
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Wednesday
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Thursday
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Friday
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Saturday
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Sunday
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