Red Eye
Description and Symptoms
Red eye is a common symptom and has many different causes. A detailed history and examination are required to determine the cause.
It is important to note whether the redness is all around the white of the eye. It can suggest conditions such as blepharitis, dry eye, thyroid dysfunction. These can associate red eye, allergic conjunctivitis or infection.
If the redness affects a sector of the eye, it is more likely to be episcleritis. It can appear like an inkblot- subconjunctival haemorrhage.
Causes of Red Eye
There are many causes if the red eye. This is a general term rather than a specific diagnosis.
The primary causes are
- Blepharitis and associated dry eye
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Infective conjunctivitis
- Subconjunctival haemorrhage
- Contact lens-related infection
Red Flags: If you have painful redness affecting one eye. Then this requires urgent examination, especially if
- You are a contact lens wearer as ulceration of the cornea needs to be identified or excluded
- Feeling nauseous or have vomited -this usually indicates high pressure in the eye
- Highly sensitive to standard lighting- photophobia and redness usually indicate uveitis and inflammation inside the eye
All these need expert advice and urgent treatment. Ms Crawley is experienced in managing all of these conditions.
Red eye diagnosis and examination
Ms Crawley will check your vision. She will examine your eyes on the slit lamp microscope and may take swabs of your eye. She will discuss the result with you and make an individualised treatment plan based on the findings.
Hello, I’m Eye Consultant Laura Crawley
I’m a consultant ophthalmic surgeon with specialist interest in glaucoma, cataract surgery and common red eye conditions such as blepharitis and conjuctivitis.
My patients are people who want to be highly informed, understand all of their options and work together with me to ensure the best possible eye care outcomes.
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For additional information download the Subconjunctival Haemorrhage Leaflet
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