Pharmacy First | Red Eye

Pharmacy First | Red Eye

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

What Should I Do for a Red Eye?

If you find that your eye has become reddened or looks bloodshot, then it may be one of many reasons. Red eyes can vary widely in appearance and can be associated with several other symptoms to indicate the cause such as irritation, burning, dryness, pain or discharge.

Red eyes are caused when tiny blood vessels dilate. Occasionally environmental or lifestyle-related reasons can swell these tiny blood vessels.

Why Visit the Pharmacy First?

By knowing when it is appropriate to visit your local pharmacy first, you can ensure that you are receiving the most appropriate level of care by a suitable healthcare professional at the right time. By choosing to visit the pharmacist first, you will get the clinical advice and support you need on the same day and only be signposted to your GP if needed.

A pharmacist will refer the following patients to their GP but if you fall under any of the below patient groups, it may still be worth contacting your pharmacist first to get help and advice quicker while you wait for your appointment. 

  • Children under 2 years
  • Contact lens wearers
  • Previous history with eye conditions (including glaucoma, dry eyes, eye injury, eye surgery, etc)

All information is correct at the time of writing.