Can Flu Cause Red Eyes?
June 17, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, the flu (influenza) can cause red eyes. This symptom is often a result of conjunctivitis, which is the inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, irritation, and a feeling of grittiness in the eyes. It can be caused by viruses, including the influenza virus.
When you have the flu, your body is fighting off the virus, and this can lead to a variety of symptoms, including red or bloodshot eyes. Other symptoms of the flu typically include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and headaches.
If you experience red eyes along with flu symptoms, it is usually not a cause for concern and should resolve as you recover from the flu. However, if the redness is severe, accompanied by significant pain, vision changes, or excessive discharge, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out other potential issues such as a more serious eye infection or other ocular conditions.