Huseman Eye Care

Valley West Office

(515) 224-9681

Merle Hay Office

(515) 278-1653

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  • Red Eye

Red Eye

  • Created in Eye Symptoms

red eye

The redness associated with “red eye” is usually caused by dilated or swollen blood vessels. As a result, the surface of the eye looks bloodshot. In contrast to vision problems or pain in the eye, red eye is often less of a concern. However, there are times when red eye may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Causes of Red Eye

When the blood vessels running over the surface of the white part of the eye (sclera) become swollen, the eyes look red or bloodshot. This can be caused by:

  • Acute glaucoma, a medical emergency in which a sudden increase in eye pressure causes severe pain and vision problems
  • Colds or allergies
  • Dryness of the eyes
  • Dust or other small particles in the eye
  • Exposure to chemicals, such as in a chlorine swimming pool
  • Infection
  • Injury, such as scratches of the outer layer of the eye (cornea)
  • Subconjunctival hemorrhage, which is caused by a broken blood vessel on the surface of the eye, often after coughing or straining
  • Sun overexposure

Red eye caused by inflammation of infection may occur along with discharge, itching, pain or vision problems. Several conditions can cause this, such as:

  • Blepharitis, which is characterized by inflammation or swelling of the edge of the eyelids
  • Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which is characterized by infection or swelling of the layer of clear tissue that covers both the surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids (conjunctiva)
  • Corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea that are often caused by a serious viral or bacterial infection
  • Uveitis, which is inflammation of the uvea, the part of the eye that includes the iris

When to See an Eye Doctor

Short periods of red eye that happen occasionally are not usually a problem. They may clear up on their own after resting your eyes or avoiding anything that was irritating them.

However, red eye that continues for longer periods or occurs alongside vision problems or pain in the eye may be a sign of a more serious problem. Contact your eye doctor if you experience any of the following:

  • Discharge from one or both eyes
  • Minor vision changes
  • Pain in the eye
  • Redness that lasts longer than one or two days

Seek immediate medical help for any of the following:

  • Being unable to open your eye or keep it open
  • Feeling like a foreign object is in your eye
  • Loss of vision
  • Puncture wound to the eye
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Severe eye pain, headache, nausea or sensitivity to bright lights

If you are experiencing long-lasting red eye or red eye combined with any of the symptoms listed above, call us today to schedule an appointment, so we can assess your eye health and provide any necessary treatment options.

  • Common Eye Conditions
    • Age-Related
    • Eye Lids
    • Cognitive and Acquired
    • Vision Impairment
    • Injury & Irritation
    • Changes in Appearance
  • Contact Lenses
  • Eye Diseases
  • Eyeglasses
    • Eyeglass Lenses
  • Eye Symptoms
  • How the Eyes Work
    • Basic Visual Skills
  • Pediatric Vision
  • Protecting Your Eyes
  • Visual Rehabilitation
  • Vision Problems
  • What is Vision Therapy
  • Vision Therapy Programs
  • We Can Help With
    • Cataracts
    • Corneal Disorders
      • Disorders
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    • Refractive Disorders
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  • Newsletters
    • Amazing, Interesting Eyes
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    • Conditions That Affect Vision
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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Merle Hay Office: 515-278-1653

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office: 515-224-9681

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday:

CLOSED

Valley West Office : 515.224.9681

Our offices are conveniently located in the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines and the Valley West Mall in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Testimonials

Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients

    I decided to get my eyes checked on a whim while I was at the mall and they were able to fit me in. The tech who worked with me worked quickly yet carefully. Dr. Brown was very kind, professional, and knowledgeable.

    Rachel S.

    Super friendly, helpful and efficient staff and Dr. Brown is always great to work with. I am very happy with the care and services at this office.

    Beth R.

    Had an exam yesterday, everyone was very nice. I also had my rowdy 3-year old and they were so patient as he was very curious to what was going on, they had crayons and paper for him. Dr. Katie was who I saw and she explained everything so well I had no problem understanding what she was telling me. I was impressed with how quickly I was able to see her since this was my first visit and check in went quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone looking for a comfortable atmospher

    Ashley B.

    I was able to schedule a same day appointment which was very convenient. The technician was very helpful and explained all the tests that were performed. Dr. Brown was fast, efficient, and very through with my eye exam. I will continue to trust Huseman for my eye health.

    Marqui B.

    It is always a pleasant experience working with Dr. Soults and Dr. Brown at the Valley West clinic.

    Shane O.

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