Red Eye

Kevin D. Gunnerson, O.D.

Optometrist located in Moberly, MO

The term red eye is more of a symptom than a diagnosis, and the condition can be brought on by a host of issues, from infections to allergies. Whatever the case, if you have red, itchy, irritated eyes, getting an experienced optometrist to have a look is important. At Dr. Kevin Gunnerson’s practice in Moberly, Missouri, he gets to the bottom of your red eye issue and treats it before it potentially leads to something larger. Don’t wait to treat your red eye. Call the office or use the online scheduler to book an appointment.

Red Eye Q & A

What is red eye?

Red eye is a catchall term that describes the result of a problem in one or both of your eyes that leads to a distinct redness. The red color is caused by blood vessels in your eyes that dilate because of an irritation or infection.

Red, or bloodshot, eyes are often accompanied by:

  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Eye pain
  • Watering
  • Swelling
  • The sensation that something is in your eye when there isn’t
  • A foreign body in your eye
  • A lump in your eyelid
  • Eye floaters

 

These symptoms, especially if they persist, point to an underlying issue that warrants the aid of an eye doctor like Dr. Gunnerson.

 

What causes red eye?

The causes of red eye are numerous, and impossible to list here. To give you an idea of the scope of possibilities, the following list represents a sample of the most common problems that can affect your eyes:

  • Allergies
  • Uveitis, which is an inflammation of the middle layer of your eye
  • Torn retina
  • Corneal abrasion
  • Keratitis, or inflammation of your cornea
  • Stye
  • Conjunctivitis, or pink eye
  • Dry eyes

 

When is red eye an emergency?

Your eyes are extraordinarily delicate, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution since complications can affect your vision.

If your red eye comes on suddenly, and it’s accompanied by pain, it’s best to call Dr. Gunnerson right away. Other examples of emergency situations include:

  • A foreign object in your eye
  • Sudden problems with your vision
  • Trauma to your eye

 

You know your eyes best, so use your judgment and don’t take any risks. At the very least, call Dr. Gunnerson’s team to find out what you should do.

 

How is red eye treated?

The answer to this question depends entirely upon your underlying condition. Dr. Gunnerson has a number of tools that can help with your immediate symptoms and address the root of the problem. From eye drops to antibiotics, Dr. Gunnerson is equipped to handle most eye emergencies.

If you’d like to learn more about red eye, call Dr. Kevin Gunnerson, or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.