When you experience pink eye-like symptoms, it’s important to contact your optometrist right away to make sure you get the best treatment. However, you may not know that other conditions share similar symptoms and could be mistaken for pink eye. This article will go over what is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye and how to properly diagnose your symptoms.
The most common condition that is misdiagnosed as pink eye is bacterial conjunctivitis. This infection is very contagious and typically spreads through people rubbing their eyes or touching them with unwashed hands. It can cause a lot of discomfort and itching in the eyes. It can also result in a watery, crusty, or bloodshot-looking discharge. It can be treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
Another condition that is sometimes misdiagnosed as pink eye is glaucoma. This is a serious condition that can lead to blindness. It can cause redness in the eyes, a burning sensation, or the feeling that something is stuck in your eye. It can also cause pain and light sensitivity. This condition can be treated with eye drops and/or ointments as well as antihistamines.
There are other conditions that can be mistaken for pink eye, including blepharitis, keratitis, and styes. These are all inflammatory conditions that can cause eye irritation, pain, and discharge. They can also cause a yellowish or greenish color in the eyes and can be caused by allergies, bacteria, or even viruses. This condition can be treated with eye drops, ointments, or prescription medications.