Common Causes of Red Eye Conjunctivitis (bacterial, viral, or allergic) Dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction Blepharitis or stye Corneal irritation, abrasion, or ulcer (often contact lens–related) Uveitis/iritis or glaucoma flare (requires prompt care) Environmental irritants (smoke, dust, chemicals) Seek urgent evaluation for significant pain, sensitivity to light, vision loss, trauma, or symptoms that worsen quickly. Slit-lamp exam for red eye evaluation at Yorkville Eye Care How We Diagnose History & Exposure: Onset, contact lens use, allergies, trauma, systemic health Slit-Lamp Evaluation: Conjunctiva, cornea, lids/lashes, and tear film Fluorescein Stain: Checks for abrasions, ulcers, or dry spots Pressure & Pupil Checks: Screens for glaucoma and uveitis/iritis Symptoms & When to Come In Eye redness, burning, tearing, or discharge Pain, foreign-body sensation, or light sensitivity Reduced or fluctuating vision Contact lens discomfort Recent injury, chemical exposure, or sudden onset Treatments vary widely, so a professional exam is the quickest path to relief and protection of the eye surface. Treatment Options Infectious: Targeted prescription drops/ointments for bacterial causes; supportive care for viral Allergic: Antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer drops and trigger reduction Dry Eye/Meibomian: Lubrication, warm compresses, lid hygiene, and meibomian therapy Corneal Injury/Ulcer: Protective therapy and strict follow-up; contact lens holiday Inflammatory: Anti-inflammatory drops when appropriate and monitored You’ll leave with a clear home plan, drop schedules, and warnings for symptoms that require immediate follow-up. Home Care & Prevention Pause contact lenses until cleared to resume Wash hands frequently and avoid eye rubbing Use only prescribed/approved drops; avoid expired or borrowed meds Follow lens hygiene and replacement schedules precisely Return promptly if pain, redness, or vision worsens Insurance & Same-Day Appointments Most medical insurance plans cover red eye evaluations. Visit our Insurance & Vision Plans page and bring your card—our team will help you use your benefits. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available. Relief Starts Here If your eye is red, painful, or light-sensitive, we can help today. We’ll determine the cause and begin the right treatment immediately. Request Appointment Related Services Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment Eye Infection Treatment Flashes & Floaters Evaluation Foreign Body Removal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)For Red Eye Evaluation & Treatment Is a red eye always an infection? No—dry eye, allergies, inflammation, or injury can all cause redness. An exam pinpoints the cause. Should I stop contact lenses? Yes—pause wear until we confirm it’s safe to resume. Can I use leftover antibiotic drops? No—improper meds can delay healing or mask serious problems. Use only what we prescribe. How fast will treatment work? Many conditions improve within 24–48 hours; some inflammatory or viral causes take longer with supportive care. When is it an emergency? Significant pain, light sensitivity, decreased vision, or chemical exposure needs urgent care.