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Red eye

A red eye is usually nothing to worry about and often gets better on its own. But sometimes it can be serious and you'll need to get medical help.

Common causes of a red eye

A red eye is often caused by an infection or dry eyes, but there are lots of possible causes.

Do not try to diagnose it yourself.

Common causes of red eyes and related symptoms.
Symptoms Possible cause
Bright red area in the white of your eye Burst blood vessel
Gritty or burning feeling, sticky eyes Conjunctivitis
Sore, blurry or watery eyes Dry eyes
Itchy, sore or red crusted eyelids Blepharitis
Feels like there's something in your eye or there is a problem with your eyelashes Ingrowing eyelash
Swollen, drooping or twitching eyelid, or a lump on your eyelid Eyelid problems

What to do if you have a red eye

If your eye does not hurt, your sight is not affected and you do not feel sick or unwell, it's probably nothing serious. It may get better on its own in a few days.

Until it has got better:

  • try not to touch or rub your eye
  • do not wear contact lenses

A pharmacist can help if you have a red eye

You can ask a pharmacist if:

  • there's anything you can do to treat your eye yourself
  • you can buy anything to help, such as cleaning solutions, eyedrops or medicines
  • you need to see a GP or optician
Find a pharmacy

Non-urgent advice: See a GP or optician if:

  • your child is under 2 years old and has a red eye
  • you have red eyes with a sticky discharge
  • you have red patches in your eye or a problem with your eyelids or eyelashes for more than a few days
  • you're worried about your eyes

If the GP or optician cannot find what's causing your red eye, they may refer you to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for tests.

Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent appointment with a GP or optician, or get help from NHS 111 if:

  • your baby has red eyes and they're less than 28 days old
  • your eye is very painful and red
  • you have a red eye and wear contact lenses – you could have an eye infection

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

You have a red eye and:

  • you have any changes to your sight, like wavy lines, flashing or loss of vision
  • it hurts to look at light
  • you have a severe headache and feel sick
  • your eye or eyes are very dark red
  • you have injured your eye, or something is stuck in your eye (such as a piece of glass or grit)
  • your eye injury was caused by a dangerous liquid, such as a chemical
  • 1 pupil is bigger than the other
Find your nearest A&E
Information:

Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring any medicines you take with you.

Page last reviewed: 27 October 2025
Next review due: 27 October 2028