“My son's eyes are red and sensitive to light. What can be the cause?”
My son is 8 years old and his eyes are red and sensitive to light. What can be the cause of this?
10 Answers
See an ophthalmologist.
He really needs to be examined as there are a variety of conditions that can cause red eyes, which is just a response to something bothering the eyes. This can range from allergies (most likely) to dry eyes (uncommon in children) to some sort of auto-immune condition (again less common but possible). I would see an eye doctor, preferably someone who specializes in cornea and external diseases.
There are many possible causes. The most common would be an infection like "pink eye." There are more ominous internal causes termed uveitis, which can cause these same symptoms. If your child just started with this, and especially if classmates or friends have the same problem, it is likely a short-term infection. If it lasts longer the several weeks, you should seek out an ophthalmologist (not an optometrist) to have this evaluated.
Might be something minor, or something very serious. Take him to an eye doctor immediately.
Jeffrey D. Gold, MD
Jeffrey D. Gold, MD
Red eyes unfortunately are a very non specific condition. Their cause can range from eye infections like conjunctivitis, to allergies, to a broken blood vessel (subconjunctival hemorrhage or even inflammation in the eyes know as iritis.
This first two are the more likely in an 8 year old. But, regardless it is important that he see an ophthalmologist to determine the cause and the correct treatment.
This first two are the more likely in an 8 year old. But, regardless it is important that he see an ophthalmologist to determine the cause and the correct treatment.
There can be multiple reasons for that he needs to be seeing by an ophthalmologist
There can be several causes including an inflammatory condition. See an Ophthalmologist or Pediatric Ophthalmologist.
There are a number of different causes. You need to have him evaluated by an ophthalmologist.
Redness and sensitivity to light can be from dryness/allergies or more serious conditions like uveitis; this needs checking out with an ophthalmologist
Many causes, including allergies, local eye disorders, and infections. Please see a doctor.
