Eye redness is a condition in which the tiny blood vessels on the white part of the eye become enlarged or inflamed, causing the eye to appear noticeably red. Commonly known as “red eye,” this condition is often related to harmless and temporary causes, but in some cases it may be a sign of a serious eye disease. The eye is one of the most sensitive organs in the body and is highly vulnerable to environmental factors, infections, allergies or trauma. Therefore, when eye redness develops, it is very important to correctly identify the underlying cause.
One of the experienced specialists in eye health, Op. Dr. Diclehan, emphasizes that eye redness can range from a simple irritation to a serious condition that may threaten vision.
Eye redness can occur due to many different reasons. The most common causes include:
Contact with allergens such as pollen, dust, pet hair, makeup products or contact lens solutions may cause redness, itching and tearing. In allergic reactions, redness usually affects both eyes.
Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can cause inflammation on the eye surface, triggering redness. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common infectious causes. Infections are often accompanied by discharge, burning and stinging sensations.
Insufficient moisture on the eye surface may irritate blood vessels and lead to redness. Prolonged computer use, contact lenses or certain medications may worsen dry eye.
Blows to the eye, scratches or entry of a foreign body may damage vessels and result in redness.
Acute glaucoma attacks may present with severe eye pain, blurred vision and marked redness. This is an emergency condition requiring immediate treatment.
Lack of sleep, intense stress, alcohol consumption, smoking and excessive salt intake may also trigger eye redness.
Since each cause requires a different treatment approach, accurate diagnosis is extremely important. Op. Dr. Diclehan especially advises patients to seek urgent medical help in cases of sudden redness affecting only one eye.
Symptoms commonly accompanying eye redness include:
In infections, yellow-green discharge and eyelids sticking together in the morning may also occur. If severe pain, sudden vision loss, headache or nausea accompany redness, this may indicate a serious eye condition and urgent medical attention is required. Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses that redness accompanied by pain should never be ignored.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed eye examination. The physician evaluates the duration and severity of complaints, medications used and allergy history. The eye surface is examined using a biomicroscope. If necessary, tear tests, microbiological cultures or advanced imaging methods may be performed. Early diagnosis is particularly important to prevent permanent vision loss in conditions such as glaucoma or severe infections. Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights that not every case of red eye is the same and professional evaluation is essential.
Treatment is planned according to the underlying cause:
In Allergic Causes
Antihistamine eye drops, cold compresses and avoiding allergens may help.
Infections
Antibiotic drops are used for bacterial infections, while antiviral medications may be needed for viral infections.
Dry Eye
Artificial tears, humidifying the environment and taking breaks from screen use are beneficial.
Trauma
The severity of trauma is evaluated and medical or surgical treatment may be required.
Emergency Conditions
Acute glaucoma crises require urgent medical intervention.
Treatment should always be guided by a specialist. Unsupervised use of eye drops may damage the eyes. Op. Dr. Diclehan warns that frequent use of “redness-relief drops” may tighten blood vessels temporarily but harm the eye in the long term.
Supportive measures that may help include
However, these are only supportive methods. If symptoms such as pain, discharge or vision loss occur, a specialist must be consulted rather than attempting self-treatment.
Urgent medical care is required in the following cases
These situations may have serious consequences. Op. Dr. Diclehan reminds patients never to ignore eye symptoms and to have every complaint thoroughly evaluated.
Helpful preventive measures include
Using high-quality cosmetic and lens products also plays a major role in protecting eye health.
Eye redness is often caused by simple and treatable reasons. However, in some cases it may indicate a serious eye disease. Therefore, if redness is persistent or severe, or accompanied by pain, discharge, light sensitivity or vision loss, a specialist should be consulted without delay. Correct diagnosis and timely treatment reduce the risk of vision loss and improve quality of life.
Experienced eye specialist Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that eye redness should never be underestimated and reminds the importance of regular eye examinations.
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