Experiencing red, itchy, or uncomfortable eyes? At New Eyes Optometrists in Enmore, we frequently treat patients with irritated eyes caused by a wide range of conditions—from dry eyes to infections or allergies. Knowing the possible causes can help you decide when to seek professional care.
1. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms include:
– Burning or stinging
– Gritty or sandy feeling
– intermittent blurred vision
2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
A common cause of red and irritated eyes, conjunctivitis may be:
– Allergic – triggered by pollen or dust, causing itchiness and watery discharge
– Bacterial – associated with sticky, yellow discharge and red eyes
– Viral – watery discharge and often follows a cold
3. Blepharitis
Inflammation of the eyelid margins. Symptoms include:
– Red, crusty eyelids
– Itchy, irritated eyes
– Burning or stinging sensation
4. Contact Lens Irritation
Wearing lenses too long or not cleaning them properly can lead to discomfort, dryness, and increased risk of infection.
5. Eye Allergies
Allergic reactions to dust, pets, or seasonal pollens can lead to:
– Intense itching
– Redness
– Watery eyes
6. Corneal Abrasions or Ulcers
Surface scratches or infections (often from trauma or poor lens hygiene) cause:
– Sharp pain
– Sensitivity to light
– Blurred vision
7. Foreign Body in the Eye
A small speck of dust or debris can cause:
– A gritty, scratchy feeling
– Redness and watering
– Risk of infection if not removed properly
8. Uveitis
An internal eye inflammation that may be linked to autoimmune disease. Watch for:
– Redness
– Deep, aching eye pain
– Sensitivity to light
9. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Ophthalmic emergency. Symptoms include:
– Sudden severe pain
– Blurred vision and halos around lights
– Nausea and vomiting
10. Scleritis or Episcleritis
Inflammation of the white part of the eye. Scleritis causes deep, severe pain, while episcleritis is milder but still uncomfortable.
11. Trichiasis or Entropion
When eyelashes grow inward or the eyelid turns in, it causes irritation and risk of corneal damage.
12. Herpes Simplex Keratitis
A viral infection of the cornea that can recur. Symptoms include pain, redness, and vision loss if untreated.
When to Seek Help
If your eye irritation lasts more than a day, causes vision changes, or involves pain or discharge, don’t ignore it. Some conditions can become serious without early care.
Book Your Eye Health Check TodayAt New Eyes Optometrists, we offer comprehensive eye exams with advanced scanning technology to diagnose and treat eye irritation effectively. Conveniently located at Enmore Medical Practice, near the Enmore Theatre, we’re here to help inner Sydney see clearly and comfortably.
Book online 24/7 or call us to schedule an appointment.
