A red, painful eye isn’t just uncomfortable - it can sometimes signal a serious issue that requires immediate attention. If you’re experiencing sudden discomfort or vision changes, the eye doctors in Holmdel, NJ at Modern Eye Care of NJ are here to help. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not can make all the difference.
 

Common Causes of a Red, Painful Eye

Not all cases of redness mean an emergency, but some can develop quickly. Common causes include:

• Dry Eyes: Dry eye can cause irritation, redness, and burning sensations. Although not typically an emergency, severe discomfort may require treatment.

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This common infection may cause redness, itching, and discharge. Certain types - especially those with significant pain or light sensitivity - should be evaluated promptly.

• Foreign Object in the Eye: If dirt, metal shards, or other debris enter the eye, it can scratch the cornea and lead to infection. Never try to remove embedded objects at home.

• Corneal Abrasions: Even a minor scratch can be extremely painful and lead to serious complications without proper care.

• Contact Lens Complications: Overuse, sleeping in lenses, or improper cleaning can result in corneal ulcers, a vision-threatening emergency.

• Uveitis: Inflammation inside the eye causes redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Without treatment, it can lead to permanent damage.

• Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, halos around lights, and sudden blurred vision are warning signs. This is a medical emergency - vision loss can occur quickly.
 

When to Seek Emergency Eye Care

Visit an eye doctor right away if you experience:

• Sudden severe eye pain or headache

• Significant vision loss or blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light

• A feeling of something stuck in your eye

• Discharge that worsens rapidly

• Severe redness or swelling

• Chemical splashes or trauma to the eye

• Halos around lights or nausea paired with irritation

If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, it’s safest to schedule an exam immediately. Expert emergency eye care in Holmdel is available close to home at Modern Eye Care of NJ.
 

How We Treat Eye Emergencies

We can diagnose and treat a wide range of eye emergencies. Using advanced diagnostic tools, our team will:

• Evaluate your symptoms

• Identify the cause of irritation or pain

• Develop a personalized treatment plan

• Provide medication if necessary to prevent infection or inflammation

Prompt treatment can protect your vision and relieve discomfort quickly.
 

Protect Your Vision at Modern Eye Care of NJ

A red, painful eye can be more than just irritation. Quick action can prevent complications and protect your sight. If something feels off, it’s important to get the right care right away.

If you’re experiencing sudden discomfort or changes in vision, contact Modern Eye Care of NJ for emergency eye care. Visit our office in Holmdel, New Jersey, or call (732) 858-1646 for further guidance.