What are the differences between keratitis and conjunctivitis?
Disease description:
My father-in-law has had constant tearing in his eye, which worsens when exposed to wind. He suspected it was keratitis, but after seeing a doctor, he learned it was conjunctivitis. Could you please explain the differences between keratitis and conjunctivitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cui Xin
Keratitis and conjunctivitis differ in terms of affected location and symptoms. Conjunctivitis does not affect vision and may present with redness, tearing, and increased secretions, whereas keratitis may cause eye pain and decreased vision. Keratitis is an inflammation occurring on the cornea (the black part of the eye), while conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. When symptoms appear, patients should promptly visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
