A frequently encountered set of eye symptoms that could be caused by numerous eye-related conditions.
Conjunctivitis, which refers to the inflammation of the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye (conjunctiva), is the primary reason behind redness and irritation in the eye. On the other hand, uveitis involves the inflammation of the iris, choroid, and/or ciliary body and commonly leads to a dull, aching pain. This discomfort may result from swelling in the front part of the eye and muscle spasms around the iris, which is the colored part of the eye. The redness in uveitis is caused by the dilation of blood vessels around the iris.
Acute closed-angle glaucoma, characterized by a sudden rise in pressure within the eyeball, can also lead to pain and redness in one eye. The pain experienced in this condition is intense and might be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. The redness in the white of the eye is caused by increased blood flow in the surrounding blood vessels.
Several other factors can lead to a painful red eye, and these include keratitis, which involves inflammation of the cornea—the outer protective layer of the eye. Keratitis often arises due to the presence of a corneal ulcer. Additionally, having a foreign body in the eye can also be a cause of pain and redness.