What should you know about a red bump inside the eye?

A bump on the inner eyelid or the white surface of the eye can result from irritation, a blocked gland, or inflammation. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, discharge, watering, burning, or gritty discomfort; Allergic Conjunctivitis more often causes itching and watering in both eyes. The exact position, tenderness, discharge, and effect on vision help distinguish these possibilities.

Do not squeeze, scrape, or try to pop the bump. Contact lenses, eye makeup, dust, and rubbing can worsen irritation or spread infection. A photograph and a short symptom diary may help a clinician understand whether the appearance is changing.

Wash your hands before touching the area. Use a clean cool compress for irritation or a warm compress when the bump feels like a blocked eyelid gland. Stop eye makeup and contact lens use until the eye feels normal and a clinician has advised that lenses are safe. Do not share towels, cosmetics, or eye drops. Arrange medical review if the bump persists, returns, develops discharge, or does not improve with gentle care.

Seek urgent eye care for reduced or blurred vision, severe pain, light sensitivity, marked swelling, pain when moving the eye, an injury or chemical splash, or a red eye with headache and nausea. A rapidly worsening appearance also deserves prompt assessment.

Ask where the bump is located, whether it resembles Conjunctivitis or another surface problem, whether you should use a prescribed treatment, and when contact lenses can be restarted.