April 30, 2025

Noticing that your child has red eyes can be concerning, especially if you are unsure of the cause. In many cases, red eyes in children are the result of something minor like allergies or irritation, but sometimes they can signal an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Knowing what to look for and when to take action is key to protecting your child’s eye health and comfort.

Common Causes of Red Eyes in Children

Several factors can lead to red or bloodshot eyes in kids, including:

• Allergies: Seasonal allergies, dust, pet dander, or pollen can cause the eyes to become red, itchy, and watery. This is one of the most common reasons children experience red eyes.

• Viral or Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Pink eye is highly contagious and often spreads quickly in schools and daycare centers. It can cause redness, discharge, itchiness, and crusting around the eyes.

• Eye Irritation: Exposure to smoke, chlorine in pools, or even rubbing the eyes too hard can cause temporary redness and discomfort.

• Foreign Bodies or Eye Injuries: Dust, sand, or other debris in the eye can cause redness and irritation. Minor scratches or more serious injuries may also result in red eyes and should be examined right away.

When to Be Concerned

While many cases of red eyes are mild, there are some signs that warrant a visit to the eye doctor:
 

• Redness that lasts more than a day

• Eye pain or discomfort

• Light sensitivity

• Blurred vision

• Excessive tearing or discharge

• Swelling around the eyes

• History of eye injury

What You Should Do

The best course of action is to schedule an eye exam at East Main Vision Clinic. Our doctor will evaluate your child’s eyes, determine the cause of the redness, and recommend the appropriate treatment. Whether it is a case of allergies, pink eye, or something more serious, we are here to help you take the right steps to keep your child’s vision healthy.

Prevention and the Importance of Regular Eye Exams

To reduce the chances of red eyes, encourage your child to:
 

• Avoid rubbing their eyes

• Wash their hands frequently

• Stay away from known allergens

• Wear protective eyewear during sports or outdoor activities

• Take breaks from screens to reduce eye strain

Regular eye exams play a critical role in maintaining eye health. At East Main Vision Clinic, we recommend annual checkups for children even if no vision problems are present. These exams help catch early signs of eye conditions and ensure your child is seeing clearly in school and daily life.

Get in Touch with East Main Vision Clinic

Red eyes in children can stem from a variety of causes, some more serious than others. If your child is experiencing persistent or painful red eyes, do not wait. Contact East Main Vision Clinic for a professional evaluation. With the right care and prevention strategies, you can help protect your child’s vision for years to come.

If your child has red or irritated eyes, schedule an eye exam with East Main Vision Clinic today. Visit our office in Puyallup, Washington, or call (253) 780-0700 for further guidance.