Red, irritated or uncomfortable eyes

Overview

Gritty, watering or irritated eyes may be related to dryness or another surface problem, but symptoms overlap. A red eye can also have a cause that needs prompt treatment. Pain, sensitivity to light and changes in vision are particularly important to report.

Dry eyes may feel watery rather than simply dry. Screens, environment and contact lenses can be relevant to discomfort, but they should not be used to explain every new symptom. A different or worsening problem deserves fresh assessment rather than automatic repetition of earlier advice.

By telephone

A telephone assessment can establish when symptoms began, whether one or both eyes are affected and whether vision has changed. Mention contact lens use, injury, exposure to a chemical and recent eye procedures at the start. These details can change where and how quickly you need care.

For a longstanding problem already examined, the conversation can review what advice was given and what remains difficult. Describe discomfort, watering and the effect on reading or usual activities. Have any optician or ophthalmology findings available so questions can relate to an established assessment.

What cannot be done remotely

A call cannot measure sight accurately, inspect the cornea or assess pressure inside the eye. It cannot exclude a serious cause of redness from a symptom description. An optometrist, urgent eye service or emergency department may be the appropriate place for examination.

Do not continue wearing contact lenses with a red or painful eye while waiting for advice. Avoid relying on an earlier diagnosis when the current symptoms include pain or altered vision. A routine appointment is not a suitable delay when urgent warning signs are present.

What to prepare

• Describe the onset and whether vision, pain or light sensitivity changed.
• Mention contact lenses, injury, chemical exposure and recent procedures.
• Have previous eye findings and current treatment details available.
• Explain whether the symptoms interfere with reading or ordinary activities.

Sources

• NHS: red eye
• NHS: dry eyes