Did you wake up this morning with red eyes? Sudden redness can be alarming and leave you wondering what’s happening. While many cases of red eyes are minor, they can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Understanding the cause and your options for red eye treatment in Fort Kent can help you get relief, protect your vision, and feel more comfortable throughout the day. In this blog, we’ll explore common causes of red eyes, how to fix them, and when to seek professional care.
Red eye causes
Red eyes can result from a variety of factors, ranging from minor irritation to more serious eye conditions. Some common causes include:
- Allergies: Pollen, dust, pet dander, or environmental irritants can make your eyes red, itchy, and watery.
- Dry eyes: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can lead to redness and discomfort, especially if you wear contact lenses.
- Infections: Bacterial or viral conjunctivitis can cause redness, discharge, and irritation.
- Eye strain: Long hours on screens or reading can make eyes appear bloodshot.
- Injury or foreign objects: Trauma, scratches, or debris in the eye can lead to sudden redness and discomfort.
- Underlying conditions: High blood pressure or uveitis can sometimes present with red eyes.
How to fix red eyes
Treatment for red eyes depends on the cause. Here are some approaches to try:
- Over-the-counter relief: Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can soothe irritation from dryness or mild allergies.
- Prescription treatment: For infections or inflammation, your eye doctor may recommend antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops.
- Contact lens adjustments: If lenses are causing irritation, switching types, adjusting cleaning routines, or taking breaks can help.
- Lifestyle changes: Reducing screen time, taking breaks, and using a humidifier can relieve eye strain and dryness.
- Emergency care: For injuries, sudden vision changes, or severe pain, seek prompt emergency eye care.
A comprehensive eye exam can help identify the exact cause of redness and the best solutions.
When should I be worried about red eyes?
While many cases of red eyes are not dangerous, certain signs warrant immediate attention:
- Severe eye pain or sensitivity to light
- Sudden vision changes, like blurred or double vision
- Thick or colored discharge
- Redness following an eye injury
- Redness accompanied by nausea, headache, or systemic illness
In these cases, contacting your eye doctor right away or seeking emergency eye care can protect your vision and prevent complications.
Getting the right care for your eyes
Getting prompt care for red eyes helps you feel comfortable and ensures your vision stays healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at Valley Eye Care Associates in Fort Kent and get the relief your eyes deserve.