Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It’s a very common condition that can affect people of all ages. While pink eye is often mild, it can occasionally lead to more serious eye problems if left untreated. It may occur in one or both eyes and can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Pink Eye
Recognizing the signs of pink eye is the first step to preventing its spread and getting the right treatment. One of the most noticeable symptoms is redness in the white of the eye. This happens because tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed.
People with pink eye often experience itching or a gritty feeling, like sand in the eye. The eye may produce discharge that can be clear, white, yellow, or green, depending on the cause. In bacterial cases, the discharge may be thick enough to glue the eyelids shut in the morning. Light sensitivity is also common, along with mild swelling of the eyelids. Many experience tearing, blurred vision, or a general feeling of discomfort in the eye.
What pink eye causes?
Several factors can cause conjunctivitis, and each type shows different symptoms and requires different care.
Viral Conjunctivitis
This is the most common type. It often starts in one eye and spreads to the other. It’s linked with cold-like symptoms and causes watery discharge. It can be very contagious, spreading through sneezing, coughing, or direct contact.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial pink eye results in more intense redness and thicker discharge, which may be yellow or green. It often affects both eyes and can spread quickly in crowded spaces.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
This type occurs in response to allergens like pollen or dust. It usually affects both eyes and is marked by extreme itching, tearing, and nasal symptoms like sneezing.
Chemical or Irritant Conjunctivitis
This happens when the eye comes into contact with harsh substances like smoke or cleaning products. It causes redness, burning, and tearing and usually clears once the irritant is removed.
How Pink Eye Spreads
Pink eye spreads easily, especially the viral and bacterial types. Germs can travel through direct hand-to-eye contact, shared towels, or contaminated surfaces. Classrooms, homes, and other group settings are common places for outbreaks. Avoiding close contact and maintaining good hygiene helps control its spread.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Not every case needs medical care, but if symptoms persist, worsen, or include pain and vision changes, professional evaluation is important. Some symptoms of eye can resemble more serious eye diseases, so proper diagnosis matters.
eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin tissue covering the white part of the eye. Early signs include redness, as well as itchiness, a gritty feeling, excessive tearing, and a discharge that may crust over the eyelashes, especially after sleep. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants like smoke and chlorine.
Viral eye is highly contagious, while allergic conjunctivitis is not. Recognizing symptoms early helps prevent spreading and allows for timely treatment. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding eye contact with unwashed hands can reduce the risk of infection.
Preventing the Spread of Pink Eye
To prevent spreading pink eye, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face or eyes. Don’t share personal items such as towels, makeup, or pillows. Clean commonly touched surfaces and avoid close contact until symptoms improve. Staying aware and practicing good hygiene goes a long way in stopping the infection.
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