Red eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a condition that causes the eye to appear red or bloodshot. It is a common eye problem that can affect people of all ages. Red eye can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies, infections, and inflammation.
Symptoms of red eye include redness in the white part of the eye, swelling of the eyelids, watery eyes, itchiness, and a burning sensation. In some cases, there may be a discharge or crusting around the eyes.
There are several different types of red eye, including:
Allergic conjunctivitis: This type of red eye is caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. It usually affects both eyes and can be accompanied by other allergy symptoms, like sneezing or a runny nose.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: This type of red eye is caused by a bacterial infection and is characterized by a thick, yellow or green discharge from the eyes. It can affect one or both eyes and can be spread from person to person.
Viral conjunctivitis: This type of red eye is caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu. It usually affects both eyes and can be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, sore throat, and runny nose.
Dry eye: This condition occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing the eyes to become red, dry, and irritated.
Contact lens-related red eye: Contact lens wearers can develop red eye if they don’t follow proper hygiene and care practices. This can lead to infections or irritation of the eyes.
Treatment for red eye depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines or eye drops may be recommended. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Viral conjunctivitis is typically treated with supportive care, such as using artificial tears to relieve symptoms.
If you experience red eye or any other eye symptoms, it is important to see an eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring the problem or self-medicating can lead to further complications and potentially permanent damage to your eyesight.
