The red eye: a review for the primary care doctor

Abstract

Red eye, characterized by hyperemia of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva, sclera, or episclera, can be caused by various pathologies affecting different ocular structures. It is crucial for primary care physicians to be able to distinguish associated symptoms and recognize the severity of the presentation. While the management of mild causes of red eye is handled in primary care, severe causes require the attention of a specialized ophthalmologist.

This article highlights the importance of managing red eye in primary care. Understanding the causes and associated symptoms is crucial for effective treatment and appropriate referral when necessary. Ocular infections, allergies, conjunctivitis, blepharitis, corneal abrasions, glaucoma, and uveitis are some of the common causes of red eye. Each has distinct clinical characteristics and may require specific treatments.

It is essential for primary care physicians to be familiar with red eye and its most common causes, as it can be an indicator of serious ocular diseases. Proper management in primary care improves efficiency and the quality of care, relieving the burden on ophthalmology specialists and allowing them to focus on more complex cases.