Differential Diagnosis for a Swollen Red Eye
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Conjunctivitis: This is the most common cause of a swollen red eye, often due to viral or bacterial infections. It presents with redness, swelling, and discharge.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause redness and swelling, often associated with itching and burning sensations.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Chronic dryness can lead to inflammation and redness of the eye, though swelling is less common.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: An allergic reaction can cause redness, itching, and swelling, especially in individuals with known allergies.
- Corneal Abrasion: A scratch on the cornea can cause pain, redness, and swelling, often accompanied by sensitivity to light.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A medical emergency that presents with severe eye pain, redness, and swelling, along with blurred vision and nausea. Missing this diagnosis can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Endophthalmitis: A severe infection within the eye that can cause pain, redness, and swelling, often following eye surgery or trauma. It requires immediate treatment to preserve vision.
- Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause swelling, redness, and pain, and may lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Keratoconus: A progressive thinning of the cornea that can cause vision problems and may lead to redness and swelling in advanced stages.
- Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera (the white part of the eye), which can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling, and is often associated with systemic autoimmune diseases.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea (the middle layer of the eye), which can cause pain, redness, and swelling, and may be associated with systemic diseases or infections.