Red Eye Examinations
Red eyes can have different causes, including irritation, allergy, and infection. An examination can help identify the cause and guide appropriate care.
What your visit can include
Let us know when the redness started and whether one or both eyes are affected. Tell us if redness comes with pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or changes in vision. These symptoms can need prompt assessment. If you wear contact lenses, remove them and contact an eye care professional promptly for unusual irritation. For other new or ongoing concerns, see our medical eye examination information.
- Explain your symptoms and any contact lens use
- Evaluate the eye surface and other relevant structures
- Discuss the likely cause and recommended care
- Understand when to follow up or seek urgent attention
Your questions, answered.
Should I keep wearing my contact lenses?
Remove your lenses if you develop unusual irritation and contact an eye care professional. Ask when it is safe to resume wearing them. For routine fitting and wear questions, learn about our contact lens examinations.
When is a red eye urgent?
Pain, light sensitivity, or reduced vision calls for prompt professional assessment. Sudden vision loss, serious injury, or severe pain needs urgent medical attention.
Patient education source: American Academy of Ophthalmology. General information; your care is tailored to you.