What should you know about red inflamed eye?

Inflammation makes the small vessels on the eye surface more visible and may cause watering, gritty discomfort, swelling, or discharge. Conjunctivitis may spread between people when infection is involved. Allergic conjunctivitis tends to cause prominent itch, often with sneezing or a runny nose. Dry air, smoke, cosmetics, rubbing, and contact lenses can also irritate the surface. These patterns overlap, so redness does not identify a single diagnosis without considering the whole eye and the person’s health.

Wash hands before and after touching the face, use a cool compress, and gently clean discharge with fresh cotton or clean water. Stop contact lenses and eye makeup while the eye is inflamed. Do not scratch or rub, and do not share towels or drops. Artificial tears may soothe some dry irritation if a pharmacist or clinician says they are suitable. Persistent or worsening inflammation deserves an examination rather than repeated self-treatment.

Arrange urgent care for significant pain, blurred or reduced vision, strong light sensitivity, a severe headache with nausea, an eye injury, chemical exposure, or a suspected retained foreign body. Contact lens wearers with a painful red eye should be assessed promptly. Seek immediate help for sudden vision loss or rapidly increasing swelling. A child who is very unwell or a person with recent eye surgery also needs prompt medical advice.

Ask whether the inflammation is infectious, allergic, or mechanical; whether treatment is needed; how long to avoid lenses; and which changes mean you should return sooner.