I woke up this morning with one eye looking like a prop from The Exorcist. What is going on?
Well, it is definitely nothing satanic. Eyes can appear red or bloodshot because the vessels in the surface of the white of the eye are enlarged. This is most commonly the result of an irritation, allergy or infection. A clue to the cause is whether the surface feels wet or dry.
How can I tell the difference?
If the eye is bloodshot and feels gritty but is not watering, then it could be “dry eye” (more scientifically it is called keratitis), which is possibly caused by an infection. You can buy lubricating eye drops from a pharmacist, but you should see your doctor if the problem continues.
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What if it is wet?
You may have a foreign body in there, making it red, watery and reluctant to open. The object can cause damage if it is not removed. Try flushing the eye with water or try removing the particle with the corner of a clean handkerchief. Ingrowing eyelashes can also cause red eyes. Your optician can remove any offending lashes.
There is nothing unusual there. I can see that much for myself.
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Maybe it is conjunctivitis, which causes watering, gritty bloodshot eyes with gunk and an aversion to bright light. This condition is highly contagious, so avoid touching the infected eye and then rubbing the other. Bathe the eye with warm water hourly. You can buy drops and ointments from the chemist.
There is no gunk, just a moist eye that is abnormally red. I don’t suppose it has got anything to do with this hacking cough I have?
It is not unusual to wake up with a painless red blotch in one eye that is usually caused by straining or coughing. It should clear up quickly, but to be absolutely certain, do consult your GP if it persists much longer than two days, or if you start to experience pain or vision problems. Meanwhile, forget The Exorcist and think Vogue editor instead: take advantage of your condition and sport a pair of glamorous shades.