Introduction

A red eye can be alarming, but isoften just a sign of a minor eye condition, such asconjunctivitis or a burst blood vessel. If it's painful, there may be a more serious problem.

See your GP for advice if your red eye doesn't start to improve after a few days.

Contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately, or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department ,if:

  • you have a painful red eye
  • you have other symptoms, including reduced vision, sensitivity to light, a severe Headaches and feeling sick
  • you recently injured your eyeparticularly if somethinghas pierced your eye

This page aims to give you a better idea of what might be causing your red eye. However, it shouldn't be used to self-diagnose your condition. Always seea doctorfor a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 16 Jun 2016