What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis - This condition is often mistaken for pink eye because it also causes redness, irritation, and swelling of the eyes. However, allergic conjunctivitis is caused by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander, rather than an infection.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome - Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep them lubricated. This can lead to symptoms like redness, itching, and a gritty sensation in the eyes, which may be mistaken for pink eye. However, dry eye syndrome is not contagious like pink eye.

3. Contact Dermatitis - Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin around the eyes comes into contact with irritants or allergens like makeup, lotions, or certain eye drops. This can cause redness, swelling, and itching that may be mistaken for pink eye.

4. Blepharitis - Blepharitis is a common eyelid condition that causes inflammation and irritation of the eyelids. Symptoms can include redness, itching, and crusting of the eyelids, which may be mistaken for pink eye. However, blepharitis is not an infection like pink eye.

5. Viral or Bacterial Conjunctivitis - While pink eye is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections, it is possible for other conditions like iritis or keratitis to be mistaken as pink eye. These conditions are more serious and require specialized treatment, so it is important to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.