Can Redness or Pain in One Eye Be a Sign of Something Serious?

Experiencing redness or pain in one eye can be uncomfortable and even alarming. While sometimes these symptoms result from something minor, they can also indicate a more serious underlying condition. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek professional care is key to protecting your eye health.
 

When Redness and Eye Pain May Be Harmless 

Eye redness and pain can sometimes be normal, especially when caused by minor, temporary issues. For example, spending extended time in front of digital screens, exposure to wind or smoke, wearing contact lenses for too long, or accidentally rubbing your eye can all lead to mild irritation and redness. In these cases, the discomfort usually subsides on its own or improves with rest, lubricating eye drops, or limiting screen time. 
 

If the symptoms are mild, improve quickly, and are not accompanied by vision changes or discharge, they are likely not a cause for concern. However, it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely and seek care if they worsen or persist.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

Not all cases of eye redness and pain are emergencies, but there are clear signs you should never ignore. Contact your optometrist immediately if you experience:

• Sudden or severe eye pain

• Redness that doesn't improve after a day or two

• Blurred or lost vision

• Light sensitivity

• Nausea or vomiting with eye symptoms

• Discharge from the eye

• Pain with eye movement
   

These symptoms could be indicators of serious conditions that may lead to vision loss if left untreated.
 

Common Eye Emergencies

Several eye conditions can cause redness and pain, ranging in severity from mild irritation to medical emergencies. Here are some of the most common:

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious and often present with redness, discomfort, tearing, and discharge.

• Corneal Abrasion: A scratched cornea can cause sharp pain, redness, light sensitivity, and the sensation that something is in your eye. This can occur from rubbing your eye, foreign particles, or improperly using contact lenses.

• Iritis (Anterior Uveitis): Inflammation of the iris, known as iritis or anterior uveitis, can cause deep eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. It may be linked to autoimmune conditions or infections and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

• Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This is a medical emergency. When fluid cannot properly drain from the eye, pressure can build rapidly, causing severe pain, redness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and halos around lights. Immediate treatment is critical to prevent vision loss.

• Scleritis: Scleritis is inflammation of the sclera (the white part of the eye) and can cause deep, aching pain, redness, and vision changes. It is often associated with systemic autoimmune diseases and requires urgent care.

• Foreign Body: If something gets trapped in your eye (like dust, sand, or a small object) it can irritate the surface, causing pain, tearing, and redness. If it’s not removed safely, it can lead to infection or further injury.

• Optic Neuritis: While it may not cause surface redness, inflammation of the optic nerve can cause deep eye pain, especially with eye movement, and vision loss. It’s often associated with multiple sclerosis and needs prompt diagnosis and management.
   

Don’t Ignore Eye Discomfort

While occasional eye irritation is common, persistent or severe redness and pain in one eye should not be ignored. Some eye conditions can develop quickly and result in permanent damage without proper care. Early diagnosis and treatment make all the difference.
 

If you're experiencing discomfort in one or both eyes, schedule a consultation with Ocean Park Optometry today for a thorough evaluation and personalized care. Visit our office in Santa Monica, California, or call (310) 452-1039 to book an appointment today.