Is It Something Else?
Many people are familiar with pink eye symptoms. Red, swollen and watery eyes are not only uncomfortable but are also hard to miss or hide. But is it really a pink eye or is it something else? Conditions like dry eyes, allergies, and even glaucoma could potentially be mistaken for pink eye.
Visiting your eye doctor can help you determine a tailored approach to alleviate your symptoms and discomfort.
What Is Pink Eye Anyway?
Conjunctivitis–commonly known as pink eye–is when your eyes show signs of inflammation or redness due to an infection or in some cases allergies. Some people also experience a sticky discharge from their eyes making this condition contagious. While this eye disease is common among children, it is important to note that adults are also at risk.
However, there are other eye conditions–some more serious than others– that can feel or look similar to pink eye. While eye irritation, redness and discharge are often mistaken for pink eye, it is recommended that a person experiencing any of these symptoms visit their eye doctor to get better clarity of their condition.
Eye Conditions Resembling Pink Eye
Here is a list of some of the most common reasons people mistake pink eye for something else.
Dry Eye: This is a common–and very annoying– condition among Americans and many people today are being diagnosed for dry eyes. Dry eye can make your eyes watery, itchy and red. Any person can experience dry eyes regardless of age or gender.
Allergies: Another common cause for red eyes is allergies. It can be caused by pet dander, the environment itself or maybe a reaction to a medication. To avoid missing a more severe condition, it is important to visit your doctor especially if this is something that is not letting you live your life comfortably.
Contact Lenses Wear: If you are wearing contact lenses for long periods of time you may be experiencing irritation. This can often get confused with pink eye as the eye will show signs of redness and overall discomfort. Wearing contact lenses can also cause infections if they are not cleaned or removed at night.
Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: Don’t be alarmed by the name. It’s often mistaken for pink eye, but it’s usually painless. If you see a red mark that looks like blood inside your eye when you look in the mirror, it might be alarming. However, it’s typically just a harmless subconjunctival bleeding and it usually goes away on its own after a few days.
Angle Closure Glaucoma: This is a serious condition that can cause permanent damage and even vision loss if not treated immediately. Glaucoma often develops slowly and initially shows no symptoms. Red eye, severe pain, and blurry vision are early signs of angle closure glaucoma which can be mistaken for pink eye. Other symptoms include nausea, seeing halos, and a severe headache. This is a serious emergency, so call your ophthalmologist immediately.
When To Seek Professional Care
If your eyes feel uncomfortable or show unusual signs, paying attention to your body and seeking medical advice is important. Here are some signs that it might be time to consult a doctor:
– If your symptoms don’t improve after a few days, it’s wise to seek professional help to avoid missing something more serious.
– Symptoms of an eye infection, like redness, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, or a gritty feeling in the eye, should prompt you to visit a healthcare provider.
– Any recent eye injury, no matter how small, needs medical attention to prevent problems and ensure proper healing.
– If you have a chronic medical condition like an autoimmune disease, be aware of any eye-related symptoms and seek specialized care if necessary.
Getting timely medical advice can help ease discomfort, prevent problems, and keep your eyes healthy. If you’re worried about your eye health, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or eye care professional.
Takeaways
Blurry vision, watery eyes, and redness are common symptoms of pink eye. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other, more serious illnesses. It’s important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and receive the appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
Based on the state of your eye and the symptoms you’re having, your doctor might recommend a course of treatment specifically designed for you. At Valley Eye and Vision Clinic we are ready to assist you. Book your appointment today.