Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment for Pink Eye?

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is often an uncomfortable infection. Unlike the name might suggest, it does not simply turn the iris pink. Instead, this virus lines the eyelid while also covering the white part of the eyeball. Pink eye is extremely contagious. This page has more info

Pink eye is actually an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Once the blood vessels are inflamed, the eye takes on a reddish/pink appearance. While many people think of pink eye as primarily a bacterial infection, it can also be caused by an allergic reaction.

Red or irritated eyes can be caused by any number of issues. Contact lenses can scratch against the eye causing irritation or blurred vision. Poison ivy, if the face is touched, can cause swelling and severe itching. Pink eye is a distinct infection that can cause pain and discharge.

-redness in one or both eyes

-eyes may feel like “sandpaper”

-itchiness

-severe eye discharge

In more severe cases of pink eye, the condition can cause light sensitivity. If pink eye is caught by somebody wearing contact lenses, they must be taken out immediately. To rule out any other potential eye conditions, scheduling an appointment with your doctor is recommended.

There are many causes of pink eyes. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are usually the most common form of pink eye, but it can be caused by a foreign object in the eye, chemicals, and allergies. It can also be caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes. This can be caused by relatively innocuous allergies such as pollen. Allergic conjunctivitis causes both itching and discharge, but can be treated with eyedrops. This is usually different from viral forms of pink eye.

Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can happen in conjunction with other viruses, such as a cold or respiratory infection. This form of pink eye can also happen when contact lenses are not thoroughly cleaned. Regardless if pink eye is from viral or bacterial infection, the condition can be spread from person to person extremely easily.

The infection can be spread through both direct or indirect contact from the eye discharge. Hand to eye contact is one of the fastest ways pink eye can spread if hands are not washed frequently. If you have pink eye, frequent hand washing is essential.

Anybody can potentially develop pink eye. That being said, if you’re not around anyone who has it, the risk significantly decreases.

The main risk factor for developing a bacterial or viral pink eye infection is exposure. If you are exposed to somebody who has the infection, you could develop pink eye fairly easily. The other reason for developing this type of pink eye stems from contact lens hygiene.

Pink eye is an infection that is often spread by poor eye hygiene. It can cause one or both eyes to become itchy and red. To prevent pink eye, it’s best to practice thorough eye hygiene.

Make sure you thoroughly clean contact lenses with solution and wash extended-use lenses on a routine basis. If you know you are around somebody who has pink eye, don’t share washcloths, change pillowcases frequently, and wash your hands. In most cases, pink eye can be prevented with the proper precautions.