When Should I See an Optometrist for My Red Eyes?

Red eyes are a common issue that can be caused by everything from allergies to infections. While mild redness might go away on its own, it can also be a sign of something more serious. At Lakhani Vision Care, we want to help you understand the causes of red eyes and know when it’s time to schedule an appointment with your optometrist.
 

What Can Cause Red Eyes?

Red eyes occur when the blood vessels on the surface of the eye become irritated or inflamed. Some of the most common causes include:

• Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergens can lead to redness, itching, and watering.

• Dry Eye Syndrome: A lack of adequate tear production can leave your eyes red, irritated, and uncomfortable.

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This contagious condition, caused by bacteria or viruses, often results in red, itchy, and watery eyes.

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause redness, flaking, and crusting around the eyes.

• Contact Lens Irritation: Overwearing or improperly cleaning lenses can lead to redness and infection.

• Eye Injury or Foreign Object: Even a small scratch or particle in the eye can cause significant redness and discomfort.

• Uveitis or Iritis: These inflammatory conditions affect deeper structures in the eye and may indicate an underlying health issue.

• Glaucoma: Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency that can cause red eyes along with pain, blurred vision, and nausea.
 

When to See Your Optometrist

While occasional mild redness may not be cause for concern, you should schedule an eye exam if you experience:

• Redness that lasts more than 24-48 hours

• Pain or light sensitivity

• Discharge or crusting

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Feeling like something is in your eye

• A history of eye conditions or recent eye surgery

These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue requiring prompt treatment.
 

Risks of Delaying Treatment

Ignoring red eyes or attempting to self-medicate without a proper diagnosis can lead to serious complications. What might seem like a minor irritation could actually be an infection that worsens over time, spreads to other parts of the eye, or becomes more difficult to treat. In some cases, untreated conditions can result in permanent damage to the eye or even vision loss.

Delaying care can also mean missing early signs of more serious eye diseases, such as glaucoma or uveitis, which require prompt treatment to prevent long-term consequences. Additionally, if the redness is caused by a contagious condition like bacterial conjunctivitis, you may unknowingly spread the infection to others.

The best way to protect your eye health is through early diagnosis and treatment by an eye care professional. Regular eye exams are also essential, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. These visits give your optometrist the opportunity to monitor your eye health, detect problems in their early stages, and provide the right care to help preserve your vision.
 

Take Action Today

Red eyes aren’t always harmless and they’re never something to ignore if symptoms persist or worsen. Your eyes are too important to leave to chance. If you’re experiencing red eyes and aren’t sure what’s causing them, it’s time to speak with an expert.

Do not ignore red eyes. Schedule an eye exam with Lakhani Vision Care to get the answers and relief you need. Visit our office in Marietta, Georgia, or call (770) 509-9932 to book an appointment today.