Differential Diagnosis for Red Eyes and Swollen Eyelid in the Morning
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, swelling, and irritation, often worse in the morning due to overnight accumulation of debris and secretions.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Morning symptoms can be exacerbated by allergen exposure during sleep, leading to red, itchy, and swollen eyes and eyelids.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Can cause morning redness and irritation, especially if the eyes are not producing enough tears or if the tears are of poor quality.
- Conjunctivitis (Viral or Bacterial): Infections can cause redness, swelling, and discharge, which may be more noticeable in the morning.
- Stye or Chalazion: A localized infection or blockage of an oil gland in the eyelid can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness, often worse in the morning.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A medical emergency that can present with red eye, swelling, and severe pain, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. It requires immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye that can cause swelling, redness, and pain, and may lead to more severe complications if not promptly treated.
- Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus: Shingles affecting the eye can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling, and may lead to complications like vision loss if not treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Thyroid-Associated Orbitopathy: Can cause swelling of the eyelids and tissues around the eye, often associated with other symptoms of thyroid disease.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can affect the eyes, causing uveitis, conjunctivitis, or eyelid swelling, among other symptoms.
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes, causing inflammation and damage.