Does Conjunctivitis Cause Fever?
January 11, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. In most cases, conjunctivitis does not typically cause a fever.
Conjunctivitis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergic reactions, or irritants. While viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can cause discomfort, redness, itching, and discharge from the eye, they typically do not lead to systemic symptoms like fever.
However, in some cases, especially with certain types of viral conjunctivitis caused by adenoviruses, a low-grade fever might accompany the eye symptoms. Adenoviral infections can sometimes cause mild fever along with symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and swollen lymph nodes, in addition to conjunctivitis.
Allergic conjunctivitis, triggered by allergens such as pollen or pet dander, also generally does not cause a fever. It mainly presents with symptoms like redness, itching, and watery discharge in the eyes.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of conjunctivitis along with a fever, especially if the fever is high or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management. Most cases of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis resolve on their own or with appropriate treatment, but it’s essential to rule out any underlying conditions or complications if fever is present.