Review Articles

Diagnosing a red eye: an allergy or an infection?

Lynn Lambert
South African Family Practice | Vol 59, No 4 : July/August| a4726 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v59i4.4726 | ©
Submitted: 26 July 2017 | Published:

About the author(s)

Lynn Lambert, Amayeza Info Services, South Africa

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Abstract

A red eye is the cardinal sign of ocular inflammation, and is one of the most common ophthalmological complaints. Inflammation of almost any part of the eye, including the lacrimal glands and eyelids, or a faulty tear film, can lead to a red eye. The condition is usually benign, self-limiting and can be managed effectively in general practice. While there may be numerous causes of a red eye, conjunctivitis is the most common. A thorough patient history and physical examination of the eye are essential in the management of a red eye when differentiating between an allergic and an infectious cause.

Keywords

red eye; allergy; infection; inflammation; conjunctivitis; viral; bacterial

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