Conjunctival Issues: When to See an Eye Doctor

Conjunctival issues?

Hello Doctor, today something dirty got into my eye, so I went to look in the mirror.
After pulling down my lower eyelid of the right eye, I noticed a few small round bumps in a deeper area of the conjunctiva (the area that is closer to the eyeball after pulling down the lower eyelid).
I'm not sure if I described it correctly, so I took a picture.
They look a bit fleshy, but I can't see them clearly.
There is no pain or discomfort; I just happened to notice them.
I would like to ask if this could be caused by allergic conjunctivitis or if it might be something else.
Should I see an ophthalmologist? If so, how long should I wait before going if they don't go away? Thank you! Picture: https://lurl.cc/bsFfF

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, thank you for your inquiry.
Based on your description and the situation depicted in the image, the small round bump you have noticed on your lower eyelid conjunctiva could be caused by several different factors.

1.
Allergic conjunctivitis: In this case, the conjunctiva may present with granular or papillary elevations, usually accompanied by symptoms such as itching, redness, and tearing.

2.
Conjunctival cyst: This is a small cyst on the eyelid conjunctiva, typically harmless and not associated with pain or other symptoms.

3.
Hordeolum or chalazion: These are small lumps on the eyelid, usually resulting from infection or blockage of the hair follicles at the base of the eyelashes or the eyelid glands.

4.
Other causes: Sometimes, it may be due to small subconjunctival hemorrhages, tiny foreign bodies, or other benign growths of the eyelid conjunctiva.

Since you described the situation as painless and without other discomforting symptoms, it may be advisable to monitor it for now.
However, if you experience pain, redness, discharge, or changes in vision, you should seek medical attention promptly.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2024/06/28

More Info

When it comes to conjunctival issues, it's essential to understand the various symptoms and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it sounds like you have noticed some small, round, raised areas on the conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye) of your right eye. Since you mentioned that there is no pain associated with these findings, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, there are several factors to consider.

Possible Causes
1. Allergic Conjunctivitis: This condition can cause the conjunctiva to become inflamed and may lead to the formation of small bumps or papillae. Allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander can trigger this reaction. Symptoms typically include itching, redness, and tearing, but it can sometimes present with little to no discomfort.

2. Pinguecula or Pterygium: These are benign growths on the conjunctiva that can appear as yellowish, fleshy bumps. They are often caused by prolonged exposure to UV light, dust, or wind. While they are generally harmless, they can cause irritation or discomfort if they grow large enough.

3. Cysts or Other Lesions: Sometimes, small cysts can form on the conjunctiva, which may appear as raised bumps. These are usually harmless and can resolve on their own.

4. Infection: Although you mentioned no pain, some infections can present with similar symptoms. Bacterial or viral conjunctivitis usually comes with additional symptoms like redness, discharge, or discomfort.

When to See an Eye Doctor
Given that you have noticed these changes in your eye, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional, especially if:
- The bumps do not resolve within a week or two.

- You experience any changes in vision, such as blurriness or light sensitivity.

- You develop additional symptoms like redness, discharge, or discomfort.

- You have a history of allergies or previous eye conditions.

Recommendations
1. Observation: If the bumps are not causing any discomfort and you do not have other symptoms, you might choose to monitor the situation for a short period (about a week). If they persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.

2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can exacerbate irritation and potentially introduce more allergens or pathogens.

3. Use Artificial Tears: If you suspect dryness or irritation, using preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe your eyes.

4. Allergy Management: If you have a history of allergies, consider taking antihistamines or avoiding known allergens.

5. Follow-Up: If the condition does not improve or if you have any concerns, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while the presence of small, raised areas on the conjunctiva may not be immediately concerning, it is essential to remain vigilant. Monitoring the situation and seeking professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen is crucial for maintaining eye health. Remember, early intervention can often prevent more significant issues down the line.

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