Red Eye Specialist

What is red eye?

Red eye can simply be a nuisance or a sign of a serious eye disease. It occurs when vessels in your eye get irritated or become swollen. If your eyes are chronically red, itchy, watery, or have drainage, see the experts at Iris Eye Care & Contact Lens Gallery for an evaluation.

What causes red eye?

Numerous conditions can cause red eyes. Examples include:

• Dry eyes
• Eye allergies
• Glaucoma
• Conjunctivitis
• Corneal ulcers
• Cellulitis
• Blepharitis

Red eye may be associated with itching, dryness, watering, or eye irritation. Determining its cause helps your optometrist develop a personalized treatment plan.

How is red eye diagnosed?

To diagnose the cause of red eye, the Iris Eye Care & Contact Lens Gallery team reviews your symptoms and completes a comprehensive eye exam using state-of-the-art equipment. They might recommend additional diagnostic testing, such as retinal imaging procedures or eye pressure tests. An allergist can diagnose allergies that might be affecting your eyes.

Your provider also completes vision tests to determine if you require glasses, contact lenses, or changes in your vision prescription. 

How is red eye treated?

The red eye treatment that’s right for you depends on the type and severity of your condition. Your Iris Eye Care & Contact Lens Gallery specialist might recommend:

Lifestyle changes

To reduce red eye associated with allergens or irritants, avoid exposure to smoke, exhaust, and common allergens. Examples include pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold. Keep indoor air and your home as clean as possible.

Allergy treatments

If red eye is associated with allergens, allergy treatments can relieve your symptoms. Examples include eye drops, sublingual medicines, oral medications, and allergy shots.

Medicated eye drops

If you have an eye infection or eye disease, your optometrist may recommend over-the-counter or prescription drops to achieve symptom relief and prevent complications.

Surgery

If you have an eye disease requiring a surgical procedure, your optometrist refers you to a qualified specialist in your area. They monitor you before and after surgery to prevent or treat complications.

If you experience chronic red eye and would like to know its cause, request an appointment with Iris Eye Care & Contact Lens Gallery by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.