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Is It Allergies? Dry Eye? Or Do I Have Pink Eye? How to Tell the Difference

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Allergies, pink eye and dry eye can look very similar, as all of these conditions can cause your eyes to turn red and itchy. Knowing the difference between these conditions can help you get the treatment you need. Either way, it’s best to work with your eye doctor in Champaign, IL to get help.

Signs of Pink Eye

Pink eye is a condition that causes a pink or red color in the white of the eyes. This can occur in one or both eyes. Other signs of pink eye include:

  • Increased tear production
  • Itching or burning in the eye
  • Discharge and accompanying crusting in the lashes in the morning
  • Constant urge to rub eyes

Signs of Allergies

If you have allergies, you’ll probably experience a range of symptoms – not just watery, red eyes. Allergies usually happen at a specific time of year and continue until the allergen in the air is gone. Eye symptoms you’ll notice include:

  • Redness and itchiness in both eyes
  • Burning, gritty feeling in eyes
  • Eyes watering throughout the day
  • Swelling eyelids

Signs of Dry Eye

Dry eye is a condition that can be persistent or can be the result of a medication or change in the environment. It may come on suddenly, or may start gradually as your body changes. If you have dry eye, you’ll notice:

  • Eye redness
  • Stinging or burning sensation in your eyes
  • Watery eyes (this is to try to eliminate the dryness)
  • Blurry vision
  • Eye fatigue
  • Sensitivity to light

Not Sure? Call the Eye Doctor

If you’re not sure whether you’re suffering from dry eye, pink eye or allergies, your eye doctor at Champaign Eye Professionals can help. We provide treatment for patients suffering from various eye conditions. This is especially important if you’re seeking contacts in Champaign IL, as all of these conditions can cause problems that interfere with contact use. Call today to make an appointment.

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Is It Allergies? Why Your Eyes Are Red

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There are many things that can cause your eyes to become red, and some of those problems are more serious than others. Knowing what makes your eyes red can help you decide when it’s time to see an eye doctor in Champaign IL.

Causes of Red Eyes

Below are some of the most common causes of red eye.

  • Allergies – Allergies can exacerbate the eyes, causing itchiness, redness and puffiness.
  • Dry eye – Dry eye is a condition that can occur for a variety of reasons. Dry eyes can be very itchy. Rubbing dry eyes can cause them to become red.
  • Conjunctivitis – Conjunctivitis is a type of bacterial or viral infection that causes the eyes to become red, inflamed and sensitive to light.
  • Overuse of contact lenses – Overuse of contact lenses can cause eye irritation and may cause the eyes to turn red, so it’s very important to use contact lenses only as prescribed.
  • Other conditions – Some other more serious conditions, like glaucoma, can lead to red eyes.

What You Can Do

If you’re suffering from red eyes, it’s important to contact your eye doctor and describe your symptoms. Your eye doctor at Champaign Eye Professionals can tell you whether you need to see your eye doctor, or if the problem will clear up on its own.

Know When to See Champaign Eye Professionals

If one or both of your eyes are red and you’re experiencing discomfort, contact your eye doctor for an eye exam in Champaign IL. Whether you’re experiencing dry eyes, allergies or another condition, it’s important to get a diagnoses and get help as soon as possible. Call today to make an appointment.