When your eyes are red or irritated, it is easy to assume it is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. But that is not always the case. Several other eye conditions, such as blepharitis, dry eye, keratitis, and styes, are commonly mistaken for pink eye. Misdiagnosis can delay the right treatment and lead to lingering discomfort.
What Is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. This inflammation causes the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva to become more visible, giving the eye its characteristic pink or red appearance.
Types of Conjunctivitis
Understanding the different types of pink eye is beneficial for proper care. Pink eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or chemicals, each requiring a different approach to care.
Viral Conjunctivitis
This type is contagious and is often caused by common cold viruses. Symptoms can include watery discharge, irritation, and light sensitivity. While it typically resolves on its own, supportive treatments such as artificial tears or cold compresses can help alleviate discomfort.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Caused by bacterial infections, this type is highly contagious and often characterized by a thicker, yellowish discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together. It requires antibiotic eye drops or ointments for effective treatment.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Triggered by allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust, this form is non-contagious. It presents with redness, swelling, and itchy eyes, often accompanied by sneezing or nasal congestion. Antihistamines and avoiding allergens are key to relieving symptoms.
Chemical Conjunctivitis
This type of eye irritation occurs when your eyes come into contact with irritating substances like air pollution, harsh chemicals, or even chlorine found in swimming pools. These irritants can inflame the conjunctiva, leading to redness, discomfort, and tearing.
While some forms of conjunctivitis can clear without intervention, others may lead to complications if left untreated. That’s why an accurate diagnosis from an optometrist is important.
Eye Conditions Commonly Misdiagnosed as Pink Eye
Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of conjunctivitis, including redness, irritation, and discomfort. Here are the most common culprits responsible for misdiagnoses:
Blepharitis
Blepharitis causes inflammation of the eyelid margins and often leads to symptoms like redness, irritation, and flaky skin near the lashes. While it may appear similar to pink eye, blepharitis is a chronic condition often associated with issues like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) or styes.
Key differences include:
- Localized inflammation near the eyelids, as opposed to the conjunctiva.
- Symptoms like crusting at the lash line or greasy eyelids, which aren’t typical of pink eye.
Proper management of blepharitis typically includes lid hygiene, warm compresses, and treatments such as BlephEx.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome develops when the eyes fail to produce enough tears or when tear quality is poor. The resulting dryness and irritation may resemble pink eye but require very different treatments.
Key symptoms include:
- A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes.
- Fluctuating vision, especially when focusing on screens.
- Tear overproduction, which may confuse patients into thinking they’re experiencing discharge.
Unlike the sudden onset of pink eye, dry eye is typically a chronic condition and can be responsive to specialized treatments such as iLux or TempSure Envi.
Keratitis
Keratitis occurs when the cornea becomes inflamed, typically from infections, injuries, or improper contact lens use. While redness and discomfort are shared with pink eye, keratitis often involves more severe symptoms, such as:
- Intense discomfort or the sensation of a foreign object in the eye.
- Sensitivity to light and blurry vision.
- Visible corneal lesions in advanced cases.
Timely diagnosis is important, as untreated keratitis can lead to severe complications. Advanced care, such as antimicrobial treatments, may be necessary to prevent lasting damage.
Styes
A stye is a red bump along the edge of the eyelid, often caused by a bacterial infection of an oil gland or hair follicle. It can be mistaken for pink eye due to accompanying redness and irritation.
Key differentiators include:
- A localized bump resembling a pimple, which isn’t typically present in pink eye.
- Tenderness and swelling near the affected eyelid.
Styes often resolve on their own, but warm compresses can help speed up recovery.
How to Recognize & Manage Persistent Symptoms
If you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or other eye concerns that persist beyond a day or 2, it’s important to seek professional care. Your optometrist can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend effective treatment options.
Our team at Calgary Trail Vision Centre or our Edmonton Dry Eye Clinic can help diagnose any concerns you may have and provide proper treatment. Don’t leave your eye health to chance. Book an appointment today.