Most cases of red eye are due to non-serious conditions like conjunctivitis, which is often caused by allergies or viruses. These conditions typically cause redness, itching, and a watery discharge. Another common cause is dry eye syndrome, where your eyes don't produce enough tears, leading to irritation. These issues can usually be managed with over-the-counter treatments or at-home remedies.

Some red eye cases require urgent medical attention, such as angle-closure glaucoma, which can cause severe eye pain, headache, and even nausea. This condition can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated immediately. Other serious conditions include iritis and infectious keratitis, which also present with redness and may cause sensitivity to light and a gritty feeling in the eye. These require prompt evaluation by an eye specialist.

You can perform a basic self-evaluation to determine if your red eye needs medical attention. Check if you have severe pain, vision changes, or sensitivity to light, which are red flags for serious conditions. Mild symptoms like itchiness and watery discharge are often less concerning. If you're unsure, a virtual consultation with a healthcare provider can help you decide whether to seek further evaluation.

Understanding the causes of red eye can help you decide when to seek medical attention.