What should you know about bloodshot eyes when sick?

Fever, congestion, coughing, poor sleep and frequent wiping can leave the eye surface irritated. Some illnesses can inflame the conjunctiva, causing redness, watering, discomfort or discharge. Allergic conjunctivitis can also resemble an illness when sneezing and itchy eyes occur together. Eye redness does not show which cause is present by itself; note whether one or both eyes are affected and whether discharge is watery or sticky.

Wash your hands often and avoid rubbing your eyes. Use a clean cool compress for comfort, gently clear discharge with fresh clean water, and do not share towels or pillows. Rest and drink fluids as tolerated. Pause contact lenses and eye makeup until symptoms have cleared. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on lubricating drops or other treatment based on the eye findings and your general illness.

Arrange prompt care for eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, marked swelling, an injury, or chemical exposure. Contact-lens wearers with a red eye should seek advice promptly. Urgent help is needed for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms. Ask for a review if discharge persists, redness continues after the illness improves, or symptoms keep returning.

Could this be conjunctival irritation, allergy or infection? Do my fever, medicines or other symptoms change the advice? How should I clean discharge, and when may I restart lenses?