Persistent Red Eyes After Waking: Is My Doctor's Diagnosis Correct?

Red eyes upon waking up?

A little over a week ago, my right upper eyelid became swollen.
This has happened before, but only once every few years.
I have been seeing the same doctor, and this time he helped drain it, then prescribed eye drops, ointment, and oral medication.
Usually, it resolves in two to three days, but on the third day, I woke up to find my entire right eye extremely red, which startled me.
The swelling in the upper eyelid had subsided, but when I returned to the doctor, he said it was due to poor eye metabolism.
A few days later, both eyes became red.
Now, both eyes require medication, and I have been on it for over a week, but they are still red when I wake up.
There has been a slight improvement, but only a little.
During the day, after washing my face, they look a bit better, and after applying an antihistamine eye drop, they appear almost normal.
I would like to ask if the doctor's explanation regarding my condition is correct, or should I consider seeing another doctor for a second opinion?

chi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/08

Dr. Wang Ziyang reply Ophthalmology

The symptoms of the first occurrence of eyelid redness and swelling appear to be a stye.
The second instance of eye redness is likely allergic conjunctivitis.
The doctor's diagnosis should be correct; however, you may have had allergic conjunctivitis previously, and it was only discovered due to this stye.

Reply Date: 2006/11/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing persistent redness in your eyes, which can be concerning and frustrating. Based on your description, it seems that you have been dealing with recurring issues related to your eyelids and eye redness, and your current doctor has attributed this to poor eye metabolism. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without examining you, I can offer some insights into your situation and suggest possible next steps.

Firstly, the redness in your eyes could be due to several factors, including allergic reactions, dry eye syndrome, or even underlying conditions such as blepharitis or conjunctivitis. Given that you mentioned your upper eyelid was swollen and that you have been prescribed eye drops and ointments, it is possible that you are dealing with an inflammatory condition. The fact that your symptoms improve with medication but return upon waking suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed more thoroughly.

Your doctor’s explanation of "poor eye metabolism" is somewhat vague and may not fully capture the complexity of your symptoms. Eye redness can often be a sign of inflammation or irritation, and it is important to identify the root cause to provide effective treatment. If your symptoms have not improved significantly after a week of treatment, it may be worth seeking a second opinion from another eye care professional. A different doctor may offer new insights or alternative treatment options that could be more effective for your condition.

In addition to seeking a second opinion, consider the following recommendations:
1. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers (such as environmental factors, allergens, or activities). This information can be helpful for any healthcare provider you consult.

2. Review Your Medications: Ensure that you are using the prescribed medications as directed. If you are using over-the-counter products, check with your doctor to ensure they are appropriate for your condition.

3. Consider Environmental Factors: Allergens such as dust, pollen, or pet dander can contribute to eye redness. If you suspect allergies, discuss this with your doctor, who may recommend allergy testing or specific treatments.

4. Practice Good Eye Hygiene: Regularly clean your eyelids and lashes to reduce the risk of infection or inflammation. This can be done using a gentle eyelid scrub or warm compresses.

5. Evaluate Your Contact Lens Use: If you wear contact lenses, ensure they are properly fitted and that you are following the recommended cleaning and wearing schedule. Sometimes, contact lenses can exacerbate eye redness if not cared for properly.

6. Follow Up with Your Doctor: If you decide to stick with your current doctor, make sure to communicate your concerns clearly. If you feel that your symptoms are not being adequately addressed, express your desire for further evaluation or alternative treatments.

In conclusion, while your current doctor’s diagnosis may have some merit, the persistence of your symptoms warrants further investigation. Seeking a second opinion could provide you with additional perspectives and treatment options. Remember, your comfort and clarity regarding your health are paramount, and you have the right to advocate for your well-being.

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