Pink Eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (a transparent layer covering the eyes).
Pink Eye, also known as Conjunctivitis. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. It is a clear thin tissue covering the eye’s white part and lines the eyelid. Doctors have mostly seen children. Pink Eye is highly contagious. We are discus about 6 conditions for what is commonly misdiagnosed as Pink Eye.
Though it is unlikely to damage your vision, treating pink eye is crucial. Allergies or dry eyes can cause redness and swelling. A thorough examination is to provide adequate treatment.
But, What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye? Usually, people get confused about whether they get Pink eye due to allergens, chemicals, bacteria, or viruses. Pink eye may indicate a minor infection that will go away on its own or something more serious.
This blog will crucially describe the conditions misdiagnosed with pink eye. Additionally, you will learn about pink eye causes, treatments, and prevention you can take to prevent Infection.
What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye –
Some conditions are wrongly assumed to be pink eye. I have listed some medical conditions that cause inflammation and red eyes. Additionally, you feel itchy eyes, discharge, and water eyes. Let’s look at some medical conditions.
Keratitis –
You will see the open sore on the cornea, a clear layer covered on the eyes. Keratitis shows some signs and symptoms as Pink Eye.
- Redness
- Eyes pain
- Soreness
- Watery eyes
- Pus
- Blurry Discharge
- Light sensitivity
- Swollen Eyelids
- White spot on the cornea
- The feeling of something in the eyes
Though it looks similar to pink eye, it is a different condition and problem. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with an optometrist for further treatment.
Iritis –
Inflammation of the iris is called Iritis and the colored part of the eye. I have included the symptoms:
- Pain in the Eye
- Severe eye pain
- Redness
- Abnormal shape of the pupil
- Blurry vision
- Headache
A few people wrongly diagnose Iritis as Pink Eye. Therefore, never self-medicate or diagnose the problem without consulting an ophthalmologist.
Glaucoma –
Glaucoma is the most common problem among people. That results in red and blurry eyes. A person may feel pain, nausea, headache, and vomiting. It is a vision-threatening condition.
It is mistakenly considered pink eyes because of the similar signs and symptoms to pink eyes.
Blepharitis –
It is dry eye syndrome, a chronic inflammation of the eyelids. This is because of the growth of bacteria and eye conditions. I have included the symptoms:
- Burning eyelids
- Blurry vision
- Crusty eyelids
- Excessive blinking
- Sticking eyelids
- Watery eyelids
- Flaking skin
- Oily eyelids
- Itchy eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Red and swollen eyelids
- Red and irritated eyes
There is not any specific treatment for blepharitis. However, doctors help you manage the signs.
Stye –
A stye is one of the most common that contains a bump that leads to pink eye. The symptoms that I have included in the list are like pink eye.
- Pain around the bump
- Swelling
- Crusting near the Eye
- Light sensitivity
- Soreness
- Itchiness
- Watery eyes
- The feeling of something eye
Styes are like a pimple and blocked oil ducts on the eyelids’ edge. Though it is not contagious, this medical condition still needs a doctor to treat it.
Chalazion –
It is a condition that is similar to stye. Though it is misdiagnosed as pink eye, it has similar symptoms.
These small bumps cause:
Type of Conjunctivitis (Pink Eyes) –
Different types of Conjunctivitis occur due to different factors. I have jotted down the type of Conjunctivitis or pink Eye.
Infection is the most common cause of pink eye. Some types, called Bacterial Conjunctivitis, have a high risk of contamination. It can be treated with only antibiotics.
A common cold causes viral Conjunctivitis. There are more chances of spreading from one person to another. Viral Conjunctivitis does not have precise medicine. However, a full course is necessary to reduce the symptoms.
Many people have allergies to different things. Pink Eye leads to inflammation of Conjunctivitis. It can be treated with antihistamines.
It is always recommended to visit a doctor. Never avoid your allergic response.
When any chemical or irritant accidentally falls in the eye. This leads to irritation, watery discharge, and redness.
Preventive Measures for Pink Eyes Conditions-
There are some steps you should take to prevent pink eyes. I have made some points that you should consider. Preventive measures are given in the following:
- Wash hands properly
- Avoid unnecessary touching to eyes
- Do not use the infected eye product on the non-infected eye
- Avoid contact lenses
- Avoid sharing personal items like makeup
- Eye checkups
- Examine the eye daily
- Wash it with fresh water
- Using artificial lenses
- Apply cold compress
- Clean eyelids with wet clothes
- Do not share pillows and towels
FAQs –
Can I have pink eyes if my eyes do not look pink?
Mild discomfort, burning sensation, or irritation of the eyes. That means your eyes don’t have to become red.
How to treat pink eyes?
Use artificial tears to prevent dryness of the eye. The doctor will advise you on antibiotics and prescribe your eye drops or ointment according to your condition though antibiotics work with bacteria.
How can you treat pink eyes at home?
Soak your eyes with a washcloth.
Change pillowcase daily
Use fresh towels daily
Wash your hands properly
Please don’t share your clothes or towel as it contaminates others.
Outlook –
The article explained the conditions which are misdiagnosed as Pink Eye. Though some conditions are not serious, it needs proper guidance and expert advice. I have explained the symptoms which occur in different conditions. In addition, I talked about conjunctivitis types and their preventive measures. If you see your condition worsening, you can directly ask the ophthalmologist about your condition. Never delay your visit to the doctor because it might bring complications. Remember to self-medicate without knowing the cause and condition until and unless a doctor has advised you.
A great vision needs healthy eyes!!