What Is Red Eye?
Red Eye is a general term that is used to describe bloodshot or irritated eyes. It is a condition, in which the white part of the eye (known as the sclera) becomes swollen. In contrast to many other eye diseases and issues, this condition is less of a concern. However, in some cases, it may be a sign of a serious eye condition. If you are suffering from red eye, contact Eyes on Hayden in Scottsdale, AZ. Red eye might be caused by any of the following conditions:
- Acute glaucoma. This is an emergency condition when the eye pressure suddenly increases causing vision problems and pain.
- Cold and allergies
- Dryness of the eye
- Exposure to chemicals, including chlorine that is added to swimming pools
- Infections
- Scratches and other injuries of the outer layers of the eye.
- Sun overexposure
- Dust and other small particles in the eye.
When Is It Time To See a Doctor?
Short periods of red eyes are not usually a problem, especially if they happen rarely. In most cases, you just need to let your eyes rest, so they can clear up on their own. However, if the problem continues for a longer period and there are other vision problems, then it may be a sign of a more serious problem. You need to see your optometrist immediately for any of the following symptoms:
- Discharge from one or both eyes
- Vision changes
- Redness that does not away after a few days
- Seeing halos around lights
- Loss of vision
- Feeling like there is a foreign object in your eye
Treatment Options
After an eye exam, our eye doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:
- Cold compresses: They help to reduce fluid retention around the eyes and reduce redness.
- Artificial tears: They are over-the-counter eye drops that effectively restore moisture to inflamed and dry eyes.
- Vasoconstrictors: These are eye drops that shrink the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva.
- Antihistamine eye drops: These eye drops contain medications that help treat symptoms of eye allergies. They also reduce soreness, redness, swelling, and stinging that is triggered by the response of the immune system to an allergen.
Red Eye Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ
Our optometrist, Dr. Beth Frankel, at Eyes on Hayden provides a variety of optometry services to her patients in Scottsdale, AZ. Whether it is red eye or another eye or vision problem, we will provide a thorough eye examination and develop a treatment plan to help your eye condition. Call us today at (480) 900-2020 to schedule an appointment with our optometrist.