What Is Conjunctivitis and How Is It Diagnosed?

Conjunctivitis, often referred to as “pink eye,” is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer that lines the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This condition can affect people of all ages and may be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. While conjunctivitis is common, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications and protecting your vision.

Types of Conjunctivitis

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Often linked to the common cold or other respiratory infections, viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and usually spreads through direct or indirect contact with infected tears or secretions.

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae, bacterial conjunctivitis can develop quickly and may lead to more serious infections if left untreated.

• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and is often seasonal, with symptoms like itching, tearing, and redness.

• Irritant Conjunctivitis: Exposure to smoke, chlorine, or other chemical irritants can cause redness and discomfort until the irritant is removed.

Common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

• Redness in one or both eyes

• Itching or burning sensation

• Watery or thick discharge

• Swelling of the eyelids

• Light sensitivity

• Gritty feeling in the eye

Because these symptoms can overlap with other eye conditions, accurate diagnosis is key to ensuring the right treatment.

How Conjunctivitis Is Diagnosed

At Houston Dry Eye Clinic, the diagnosis of conjunctivitis begins with a comprehensive eye exam. The first step is a review of your symptoms and medical history. Understanding when your symptoms began, possible exposures, and any related health issues helps your optometrist narrow down the cause of the condition.

Next, your doctor will examine your eyes with specialized equipment. Using a slit lamp microscope, they can closely inspect the conjunctiva, cornea, and eyelids for signs of inflammation, discharge, or other abnormalities that may indicate conjunctivitis.

Your optometrist will also assess the type of discharge present. The appearance of the discharge, whether watery, mucous-like, or pus-filled, provides valuable clues about the type of conjunctivitis affecting your eyes.

In some cases, additional testing may be necessary. A swab of the eye discharge can be sent to a laboratory to confirm whether bacteria or viruses are present, ensuring you receive the most effective and targeted treatment plan.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early diagnosis and treatment of conjunctivitis are crucial for several reasons:

• Preventing Spread - Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. Starting treatment early reduces the risk of transmission to others.

• Avoiding Complications - Untreated bacterial conjunctivitis can lead to more serious eye infections and potential vision problems.

• Relieving Discomfort Quickly - Early care helps reduce symptoms like redness, irritation, and discharge, improving daily comfort.

• Protecting Overall Eye Health - Prompt treatment ensures conjunctivitis is not mistaken for other, more serious eye conditions.

Protect Your Eyes with Prompt Care

Conjunctivitis may be common, but it should never be ignored. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking professional care ensures quick relief, prevents complications, and helps protect your vision. Whether it’s caused by infection, allergies, or irritants, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward recovery.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye, contact Houston Dry Eye Clinic to schedule an eye exam and get the right treatment for your needs. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 664-4760 to book an appointment today.