Differential Diagnosis for Red Eye from Not Sleeping
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Allergic conjunctivitis: This condition is often caused by lack of sleep, which can lead to increased histamine release, resulting in red, itchy, and watery eyes.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dry eye syndrome: Prolonged periods without sleep can reduce tear production, leading to dry, red, and irritated eyes.
- Fatigue-induced conjunctival injection: Lack of sleep can cause blood vessels in the conjunctiva to become more visible, giving the appearance of red eyes.
- Blepharitis: This condition, characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, can be exacerbated by lack of sleep and poor eye hygiene.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma: Although rare, this condition can cause red eye, severe pain, and vision loss, and requires immediate medical attention.
- Endophthalmitis: A severe infection within the eye that can cause redness, pain, and vision loss, and requires prompt treatment.
- Orbital cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the tissues surrounding the eye that can cause redness, swelling, and vision loss, and requires urgent medical attention.
- Rare diagnoses
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry, red eyes due to decreased tear production.
- Keratoconus: A condition characterized by thinning of the cornea, which can cause redness, blurred vision, and eye discomfort.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, which can cause redness, pain, and vision loss, and requires medical attention.