Red flags & when to go in person for Red Eye

Audience: adult

Red eye is a common symptom that can result from many causes, ranging from mild irritation to serious eye conditions. Telemedicine can help assess many cases of red eye, especially when symptoms are mild and there are no urgent warning signs. However, some signs indicate the need for immediate in-person evaluation to prevent complications or vision loss. These include severe pain, vision changes, sensitivity to light, or trauma. Understanding when to seek urgent care versus when telemedicine is appropriate helps ensure timely and safe treatment. This guide explains common red flags, what telemedicine can and cannot do for red eye, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. It also provides aftercare advice and answers frequently asked questions to support your eye health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or aching — seek urgent in-person care immediately.
• Sudden vision loss or blurred vision — go to emergency eye services without delay.
• Eye injury or trauma — get prompt evaluation at an emergency or urgent care facility.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild red eye caused by allergies or irritation.
• Mild conjunctivitis without severe pain or vision changes.
• Follow-up questions about ongoing eye symptoms.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eye pain or trauma.
• Sudden vision loss or significant vision changes.
• Signs of serious infection such as fever, swelling, or discharge with pain.

What Causes Red Eye?

Red eye happens when blood vessels in the white part of the eye become swollen or irritated. Common causes include allergies, dry eyes, infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye), or minor injuries. Sometimes, red eye can be a sign of more serious problems affecting the cornea, inside the eye, or surrounding tissues.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine is useful for evaluating red eye when symptoms are mild and there are no urgent warning signs. A healthcare provider can review your symptoms, look at photos or video of your eye, and suggest treatments such as artificial tears or allergy medications. This can save time and reduce exposure to others if you have a mild infection or irritation.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms require prompt in-person evaluation to prevent serious complications:

If you have any of these, seek emergency or urgent eye care immediately.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your virtual appointment:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider's instructions carefully. This may include:

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience sudden vision loss, intense pain, trauma to the eye, or signs of infection with fever and swelling, go to the nearest emergency room or eye specialist immediately. These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that need urgent treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure good lighting to clearly show your eye on camera.
• Have a family member assist if possible for better visualization.
• Prepare to describe your symptoms including onset, duration, and any changes.
• List any current medications or eye drops you are using.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow all treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use any prescribed eye drops or medications as directed.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation or infection.
• Monitor your symptoms and seek in-person care if red flags develop.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if recommended by your provider.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my red eye?

Telemedicine can help assess many causes of red eye based on your symptoms and visual inspection through video or photos. However, some conditions require in-person examination for accurate diagnosis.

When should I go to the emergency room for red eye?

If you experience severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, eye trauma, or signs of serious infection like fever and swelling, you should seek emergency care immediately.

Can I use over-the-counter eye drops for red eye?

Some over-the-counter drops may help with mild irritation or dryness. However, avoid using drops without guidance if you have severe symptoms or signs of infection. Consult a healthcare provider first.

Is red eye contagious?

Some causes of red eye, like viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, can be contagious. Good hygiene, such as handwashing and avoiding sharing towels, helps prevent spread.

How long does red eye usually last?

Mild red eye often improves within a few days with proper care. If symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, seek medical advice.

Sources

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Red Eye: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Eye Infections — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Red Eye — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and treatment. If you experience any red flags or worsening symptoms, please seek urgent care immediately.