When your eyes are itchy, red, and irritated, it can be difficult to determine whether you’re dealing with a simple case of eye allergies or something more serious like conjunctivitis. Both conditions share similar symptoms, making it challenging for individuals to self-diagnose. However, understanding the key differences can help you seek the appropriate treatment promptly. In this blog, we’ll explain how to identify symptoms of eye allergies and conjunctivitis and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our board-certified medical providers can examine your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment for you to recover quickly. Simply walk-in any day of the week!
Understanding Eye Allergies
Eye allergies, sometimes referred to as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when your eyes react to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or pet dander. One of the primary indicators of eye allergies is the presence of other allergic symptoms. If you are experiencing sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, or itchy skin in addition to your eye irritation, it’s likely that you are dealing with seasonal allergies. Eye allergies often occur seasonally or in response to specific triggers, such as exposure to pollen in the spring.
Understanding Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva– the thin layer covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of your eyelids. Pink eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or certain irritants. While viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can present similar symptoms to eye allergies, they may also include additional signs such as discharge, crusting of the eyelids, and sensitivity to light. If you are experiencing these symptoms along with red, irritated eyes, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
One way to distinguish between eye allergies and conjunctivitis, apart from the signs, is the duration of symptoms. Allergy symptoms tend to come and go, fluctuating in intensity depending on your exposure to allergens. If your symptoms persist for an extended period of worsen over time, it could indicate a more serious underlying condition like pink eye that requires specific treatment.
Seeking Medical Diagnosis and Treatment
When in doubt, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can conduct a thootigh evaluation, including an examination of your eyes and medical history, to determine the cause of your symptoms accurately. Depending on the diagnosis, your provider may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications, eye drops, or other treatments to alleviate your discomfort and promote healing. It’s important to consider your personal health history and any recent exposure to potential allergy triggers. If you have a known allergy to certain substances or have been exposed to someone with pink eye, it’s important to share this information with your provider. This, in addition to testing, can help narrow down the possible cause of your symptoms.
Get Same-Day Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Union City
While allergies and conjunctivitis share similar symptoms, there are key differences that can help you distinguish between the two. It’s always best to rely on a professional diagnosis when it comes to your health. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice! Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City for walk-in care. Take care of your eye health by being proactive and visiting our urgent care center today. We’re open seven days a week and appointments are not required. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our medical team directly by dialing (551) 257-1948.
