Painless Redeye Flashcards
What is a painless red eye?
A red eye that occurs without pain, often indicating a non-urgent or less severe underlying condition.
What are some common causes of a painless red eye?
Subconjunctival haemorrhage, conjunctivitis, episcleritis, or dry eye syndrome.
What are the key symptoms of a painless red eye?
Redness, potential watering, discharge, or irritation, but no pain.
What is the aetiology of a subconjunctival haemorrhage?
Often caused by minor trauma, sudden increases in pressure (e.g., sneezing, coughing), or anticoagulation.
What is the aetiology of conjunctivitis?
Viral, bacterial, or allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva.
What is episcleritis?
A self-limiting inflammation of the episclera, a thin layer of tissue covering the sclera.
What are the likely symptoms of conjunctivitis?
Redness, discharge (watery or purulent), and potential itchiness or grittiness.
What is the prevalence of subconjunctival haemorrhage?
It is common and can affect individuals of all ages, often spontaneously.
What are common risk factors for a painless red eye?
Contact lens use, recent infections, allergies, or minor eye trauma.
What clinical signs suggest a subconjunctival haemorrhage?
A sharply demarcated bright red area on the sclera, often asymptomatic.
What clinical signs suggest conjunctivitis?
Diffuse conjunctival redness, discharge, and swelling of the conjunctiva.
How is episcleritis differentiated from more severe conditions?
It presents with localised redness without discharge or severe pain.
What investigations are typically needed for a painless red eye?
Most cases are diagnosed clinically, but swabs may be taken in suspected infectious conjunctivitis.
What are the main differential diagnoses for a painless red eye?
Subconjunctival haemorrhage, conjunctivitis, episcleritis, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye).
How is a subconjunctival haemorrhage managed?
Usually no treatment; resolves spontaneously within 1-2 weeks.
What is the conservative management of conjunctivitis?
Good hygiene practices and avoidance of allergens or irritants.
What is the medical management of bacterial conjunctivitis?
Antibiotic eye drops, such as chloramphenicol or fusidic acid.
What is the medical management of allergic conjunctivitis?
Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines.
What are the common symptoms of dry eye syndrome?
Grittiness, dryness, occasional redness, and sensitivity to light.
What is the treatment for episcleritis?
Often self-limiting, but lubricating eye drops or topical NSAIDs may help reduce symptoms.
What features would suggest a more urgent cause of red eye?
Pain, vision changes, photophobia, or irregular pupil shape.
What are potential complications of untreated conjunctivitis?
Corneal involvement, scarring, or chronic conjunctivitis in severe or untreated cases.
Why is it important to differentiate painless from painful red eye?
Painful red eyes may indicate sight-threatening conditions requiring urgent referral.
What is the role of an eye specialist in painless red eye cases?
Referral is necessary if symptoms persist, worsen, or vision is affected.
How can patients prevent recurrence of painless red eye conditions?
Good hygiene, avoiding eye rubbing, managing allergies, and protecting eyes from irritants or trauma.
