Photophobia and red eye

Redness may come from dryness, allergy, a surface infection, a scratched cornea, or inflammation inside the eye. [Conjunctivitis](/conditions/conjunctivitis/) can present with redness, watering, itch, or discharge. Photophobia is also possible during [Migraine](/conditions/migraine/), although a red eye and significant eye pain should not be assumed to be migraine without an examination.

Record whether the redness is in one eye or both, whether discharge sticks the eyelids together, and whether vision is blurred. Contact-lens use, recent trauma, chemical exposure, and new cosmetics are useful details. Light sensitivity itself is described in [Light Sensitivity](/symptoms/light-sensitivity/).

Wash your hands, avoid rubbing the eye, and stop contact lenses until symptoms have settled and a clinician says they are safe to wear. Use clean water for a chemical splash and seek help promptly. Sunglasses outdoors and softer indoor lighting can reduce discomfort, but do not cover a painful eye for long periods or use leftover antibiotic or steroid drops.

Book an eye or primary-care assessment when redness and sensitivity do not settle, recur, or affect vision. Bring your medicines and contact-lens details, and mention any recent injury or infection.

Seek urgent care for severe eye pain, reduced or hazy vision, halos around lights, marked swelling, unequal pupils, injury, or a chemical splash. Emergency help is needed when light sensitivity occurs with fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, vomiting, or a new rash; [Meningitis](/conditions/meningitis/) can present with this wider pattern. Do not drive yourself if vision is affected.

Ask whether the redness is on the eye surface or deeper, whether you need an urgent eye examination, when to restart contact lenses, and which drops are appropriate. Also ask how to recognise worsening pain or vision change.