Understanding Red Eye: Causes
Do your eyes sometimes get red and irritated? This could be a sign of irritation or infection. The inside of your eyelid and the white of your eye are covered with a membrane called the conjunctiva. When your eye is irritated or infected, the blood vessels in this membrane swell. This condition is called conjunctivitis. It is also called red eye or pink eye.
Irritation
Allergies and environmental irritants are common causes of inflamed eyes. Other causes can include:
-
Injuries
-
Objects in the eye
-
Some eye drops
-
Makeup
-
Contact lenses
-
Eye diseases
-
Eye fatigue
Infection
Viruses and bacteria can cause eye infections. An infection may begin in your eye. It can also start somewhere else in your body, such as your nose or throat. Sexually transmitted infections can also cause eye infections.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Chris Haupert MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Tara Novick BSN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Whitney Seltman MD
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2022
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.