Eye redness is a common concern that can range from a mild, temporary irritation to a sign of a more serious eye condition. Whether it’s general redness, a red ring around the iris, or bloodshot eyes, understanding what’s causing the change in appearance is key to protecting your vision and overall eye health. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of eye redness, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to see an eye care professional.
What Causes Redness In The Eye?
Several factors can lead to redness in the eye. These causes can range from minor irritations to more significant medical conditions. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and symptoms. A closer look at each will help you understand what might be contributing to the abnormal redness. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
- Iritis
- Corneal Abrasions or Ulcers
- Contact Lens Irritation
- Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is one of the most frequent causes of redness in the eye. It occurs when the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye—becomes inflamed. Pink eye is highly contagious, so practicing good hygiene is crucial to prevent it from spreading. Pink eye usually causes the white part of the eye to be red across the whole surface, though in some cases it looks like a ring of redness around the iris.
- Symptoms: Pink eye symptoms can include eye redness, irritation, discharge, and sometimes swelling. It is most often caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by a bacterial infection, allergies, or exposure to irritants like smoke or chlorine.
- Treatment: Treatment depends on the cause. Viral conjunctivitis usually clears up on its own, while bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops. For allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamine drops can help relieve symptoms.
Iritis
Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis, is inflammation of the iris itself. This condition classically causes a red ring around the iris, along with other symptoms such as light sensitivity, pain, and blurred vision. If left untreated, iritis can lead to permanent damage to your vision, so seeking professional care is essential. Iritis often occurs due to an underlying autoimmune condition in which the body’s own immune system is causing inflammation, but it can also be secondary to trauma, surgery, or infection.
- Symptoms: Besides the red ring around the iris, iritis typically causes eye pain, light sensitivity (photophobia), and blurry vision. In some cases, the pupil may become smaller than usual.
- Treatment: Iritis often requires prompt medical treatment to prevent complications. Corticosteroid eye drops or oral medications are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation. Dilating eye drops may also be used to relieve pain and prevent complications like scarring.
Corneal Abrasion or Ulcer
The cornea is the clear front layer of the eye over the colored part of the eye. A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the cornea, while a corneal ulcer is an infection or inflammation of the cornea, which usually results from contact lens wear or a scratch on the eye. This condition can cause diffused red eye or a red ring around the iris, along with pain, discharge, and blurred vision. An abrasion may often heal on its own, but can be very painful. Having an expert examine the eye to rule out infection or deeper injury is advisable. If there is an infection, antibiotic drops will likely be needed.
- Symptoms: Eye redness, pain, discharge, and blurred vision are common signs of a corneal ulcer. In severe cases, you may also notice a white or gray spot on the cornea.
- Treatment: Depending on the cause of the ulcer, treatment may include antibiotic, antifungal, or antiviral eye drops. It’s important to avoid wearing contact lenses until the ulcer heals and follow your doctor’s care instructions to prevent further complications.
Contact Lens Irritation
Improper use or extended wear of contact lenses can lead to irritation and redness around the iris. When contact lenses are not cleaned properly or worn for too long, bacteria can build up, causing inflammation. Proper hygiene and following your eye doctor’s guidance on contact lens care are crucial to avoiding future irritation and infections. Dry eyes can also occur if the lenses don’t fit properly or block oxygen from reaching the cornea.
- Symptoms: In addition to a red ring around the iris, you may experience dry eyes, discomfort, or blurry vision. There might also be a feeling of something foreign in your eye.
- Treatment: The best way to treat contact lens irritation is to remove the lenses and allow your eyes to rest. Eye drops may help alleviate discomfort, but it’s important to consult an eye care professional to determine if changes in your lens type or wear schedule are needed.
Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a small blood vessel bursts just beneath the surface of the eye, resulting in a patch of bright red discoloration. Though it looks alarming, it is usually harmless and often occurs due to straining, coughing, or sneezing. The red discoloration may extend around the iris in a ring-like pattern, giving the appearance of a red ring around the iris.
- Symptoms: A bright red patch in the white of the eye, with no pain or vision changes. It may take several days or weeks to resolve fully.
- Treatment: Subconjunctival hemorrhages usually heal on their own without the need for treatment. However, if the redness is accompanied by pain or vision issues, you should seek medical advice.
When to See a Doctor
While some causes of a red ring around the iris are mild and resolve on their own, others may require medical attention. Getting a proper diagnosis is vital for determining the underlying cause and ensuring your vision is protected. You should contact an eye care professional if:
- The redness is accompanied by pain, sensitivity to light, or vision changes.
- The red ring does not improve after a few days of home care.
- There is a noticeable discharge from the eye or a feeling of something in the eye.
- You have a history of eye injuries, infections, or autoimmune conditions.
Treating All Eye Conditions at Dean McGee Eye Institute
Redness in the eye can result from a variety of causes, ranging from conjunctivitis to more severe conditions like iritis or corneal ulcers. While some cases can be treated at home with rest and over-the-counter remedies, others require professional medical intervention. If you notice persistent redness, pain, or changes in vision, it’s essential to seek care from an eye specialist at Dean McGee Eye Institute to ensure the best possible outcome for your eye health. By understanding the potential causes and taking appropriate action, you can protect your vision and address any underlying conditions that may be affecting your eyes.
