Red, irritated eyes? You’re not alone.
We hear it every day—especially in fall and winter, when dry air, indoor heat, allergies, and screen time converge into one not-so-lovely eye cocktail of problems.
But redness isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It’s your eyes’ way of sounding the alarm.
So What’s Causing It?
1. Dry Eye Disease
This is the most common—and most underdiagnosed—cause of redness. When your tear film breaks down, your eyes get inflamed. That inflammation shows up as redness, stinging, and even blurred vision.
2. Blepharitis (Eyelid Inflammation)
Blocked oil glands and buildup along the lash line can cause your eyes to look red, feel gritty, and burn. Often misdiagnosed as allergies, this condition needs specific treatment—not just drops.
3. Allergies and Environmental Irritants
Yes, seasonal allergies are real culprits. But so are dust, mold, pet dander, and even smoke or scented candles. These trigger inflammation of the conjunctiva and send histamines into overdrive.
4. Contact Lens Issues
Wearing lenses too long, improper fit, or not cleaning them correctly can all cause redness—especially with extended wear or costume contacts.
5. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Not all red eyes are “just allergies.” Bacterial or viral infections can cause serious inflammation—and they’re contagious. If you wake up with goopy lashes or swelling, call us.
6. Broken Blood Vessel (Subconjunctival Hemorrhage)
Looks scary, but it’s usually harmless. Caused by strain, coughing, or rubbing your eyes too hard. Still, if it happens frequently, it’s worth investigating.
When to Worry
If you have red eyes that don’t go away with artificial tears, or if redness is accompanied by:
- Pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Vision changes
- Discharge
- A feeling of something stuck in your eye
Don’t wait. These can be signs of something more serious.
You Don’t Have to Just Live With It
We’ll help you uncover the real reason behind the redness—and build a plan that actually works. Sometimes it’s drops. Sometimes it’s inflammation. Sometimes it’s a bigger issue underneath.
📍 Sokol Advanced EyeCare – Madison, WI
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your eye health or symptoms.
