Blog post
8 common causes of red and painful eyes
Matthew Burford BSc(Hons) Optometry MCOptom - Domiciliary Optician and Professional Services Manager at OutsideClinic
5 minute read time
Eye infections
Bacterial or viral infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can inflame the eye, causing redness, discomfort, and discharge.
Other symptoms:
- Watery eyes or thick, sticky discharge
- Crusty eyelids (especially in the morning)
- Itchy, burning, or gritty sensation
- Redness and pain in only one eye or both
How to treat it:
- Viral infections usually clear on their own
- Bacterial infections may require eye drops
- Keep the eye clean and avoid rubbing it
How to prevent it:
- Wash hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes
- Don’t share eye makeup, towels, or contact lenses
Dry eye syndrome
If your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or tears of sufficient quality they can become dry, irritated, and red.
Read more about dry eye syndrome
Other symptoms:
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes (a reflex response to dryness)
- Gritty or burning sensation
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
How to treat it:
- Use lubricating eye drops (at OutsideClinic, we recommend Thealoz Duo Drops)
- Take breaks from screens and avoid dry environments
How to prevent it:
- Stay hydrated and blink often, especially when using screens
- Use a humidifier in dry environments
Allergies
An allergic reaction to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other irritants can cause eye inflammation and discomfort.
Read more about hay fever allergies
Other symptoms:
- Outer corners of eye red and painful or itchy
- Puffy or swollen eyelids
- Sneezing or a runny nose
How to treat it:
- Antihistamine eye drops or oral allergy medication can help
- Cold compresses can reduce swelling and irritation
How to prevent it:
- Avoid allergens where possible
- Keep windows closed during high-pollen seasons
Eye injuries
A scratch, foreign object, or blunt force injury can make eye feel sore and irritated.
Other symptoms:
- Excessive watery eyes
- Feeling like something is stuck in the eye
How to treat it:
- Rinse the eye with sterile saline or cool, boiled water
- Avoid rubbing your eye
- Seek medical attention, especially if the foreign body was high velocity or organic
How to prevent it:
- Wear protective eyewear when doing DIY, playing sports, or working in dusty areas
Contact lens irritation
Wearing contact lenses for too long or not cleaning them properly can cause irritation and redness.
Other symptoms:
- Redness and pain in one or both eyes
- Dry or gritty sensation
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
How to treat it:
- Remove contact lenses and allow your eyes to rest, consider wearing glasses for a while
- Use lubricating eye drops such as Thealoz Duo Drops
- If irritation persists, see an optician
How to prevent it:
- Follow contact lens hygiene guidelines
- Never sleep in contacts unless advised by your optician
Glaucoma
A sudden increase in eye pressure, known as acute angle-closure glaucoma, is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment.
Other symptoms:
- Severe headache and nausea
- Redness and pain in only one eye or both
- Blurred vision or halos around lights
- Swelling/swollen eye
How to treat it:
- Seek emergency medical attention immediately
- Medications or surgery may be needed to relieve pressure
How to prevent it:
- Regular eye exams can help detect early signs or risks of glaucoma
Uveitis
Inflammation inside the eye, often linked to autoimmune conditions or infections, can cause painful, red eyes and vision problems.
Other symptoms:
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Floaters (dark spots in vision)
How to treat it:
- Prescription steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation
- If caused by an infection, antibiotics or antivirals may be required
How to prevent it:
- People with autoimmune conditions should have regular eye check-ups
Blepharitis
A common eyelid condition that causes redness, irritation, and inflammation of the eyelids.
Other symptoms:
- Crusty or sticky eyelids
- Itching or burning sensation
- Feeling like something is in the eye
How to treat it:
- Warm compresses to the eyelids to reduce swelling and help unblock any clogged oil glands (at OutsideClinic, our Optometrists recommend MGDRx EyeBag)
- Eyelid cleansers such as Blephaclean
- Topical or oral antibiotics if bacterial infection is present
- Steroid eye drops or ointments for inflammation (in extreme cases)
How to prevent it:
- Maintain good eyelid hygiene
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
When to seek medical help
If you experience severe pain, sudden vision changes, intense headaches, swelling/swollen eyes, or extreme sensitivity to light, seek urgent medical attention.
Many causes of painful red eye can be treated at home, but if symptoms persist, it’s best to book an eye appointment.
Regular check-ups and proper eye care can help prevent many common eye problems, keeping your vision clear and comfortable.
