What does conjunctival hyperemia indicate about the condition of the conjunctiva?

Conjunctival hyperemia refers to the dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva, resulting in a reddened appearance. This condition is generally indicative of superficial disease affecting the conjunctiva itself or nearby structures. Conditions that may cause conjunctival hyperemia include allergic reactions, conjunctivitis (viral or allergic), and mild irritations, all of which typically involve the superficial layers of the eye rather than deeper ocular structures.

The presence of conjunctival hyperemia suggests that there is some form of irritation or inflammation localized to the conjunctiva, distinguishing it from deeper ocular diseases, which typically show different signs and symptoms. Therefore, recognizing conjunctival hyperemia as a sign of superficial disease helps in diagnosing and determining the appropriate management for various ocular conditions.