Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, moist tissue that covers the whites of the eyes and the inner eyelids.
The condition can affect one or both eyes and is common in both children and adults.
Depending on the cause, symptoms may include redness, irritation, discharge, and general discomfort.
Redness in the eyes
One of the most noticeable signs of conjunctivitis is redness in the whites of the eyes.
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This redness occurs due to irritation and dilated blood vessels in the conjunctiva, and it can range from light pink to a deep red appearance.
Itching
Persistent itching is a frequent symptom of pink eye.
It can be irritating throughout the day and may lead people to rub their eyes, which can worsen the condition or spread the infection.
Burning sensation
Many people experience a burning or stinging feeling in the eyes. This is often accompanied by tearing and can interfere with daily comfort.
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Pain and discomfort
Conjunctivitis may cause mild eye pain or a general sensation of discomfort.
While not usually severe, this symptom can make it harder to concentrate on tasks such as reading or screen work.
Increased tear production
The eyes often react to conjunctivitis by producing excess tears. This constant watering can make the eyes feel sore and overly sensitive.
Swelling of the eye’s white
Inflammation can cause swelling in the conjunctiva, giving the eye a puffy and irritated look. This swelling is commonly paired with redness.
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Swollen eyelids
Pink eye may also lead to puffy, heavy eyelids. This can add to the feeling of tired, irritated eyes.
Eye discharge
The type of discharge depends on the cause of conjunctivitis. It may appear watery, slimy, or thick like pus, and often collects in the corners of the eye.
Crusting around the eyes
A common sign of conjunctivitis is crust formation on the eyelashes and eyelids, especially in the morning. Sometimes the eyelids stick together after sleep.
Blurred vision
The infection can temporarily affect vision, often due to swelling or discharge that disrupts light entering the eye normally.
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Light sensitivity
Many people with conjunctivitis find bright light uncomfortable. Sensitivity can make outdoor activities or being in well-lit rooms difficult.
Foreign body sensation
Conjunctivitis often causes the sensation that something is stuck in the eye, even though nothing is present. This persistent feeling can be highly irritating.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
This type usually causes thick, yellow-green discharge that may glue the eyelids together.
It can appear alongside ear infections. While not usually painful, the amount of discharge can make it look severe.
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Viral conjunctivitis
This form begins in one eye and often spreads to the other within days.
It produces watery discharge and may be linked with respiratory infections like the flu. Swollen lymph nodes in front of the ears are also common.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Triggered by allergens such as pollen, this type usually affects both eyes at once.
It causes intense itching, swelling, and tearing. The discharge is usually clear rather than thick.
Irritant conjunctivitis
Caused by foreign particles, smoke, chemicals, or trauma, irritant conjunctivitis typically leads to redness, swelling, and watery eyes.
Conjunctivitis vs. stye
Although pink eye and a stye can appear together, they are different conditions.
Conjunctivitis affects the conjunctiva, while a stye is an infection of the eyelid glands, limited to one eyelid.
Diagnosis
Doctors usually diagnose conjunctivitis by examining the eyes and discussing symptoms.
In some cases, they may use special dye tests or tissue samples to identify the exact cause, especially if the condition is severe or chronic.
Treatment for viral conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis often resolves on its own within one to two weeks.
Relief may be found with artificial tears, warm or cold compresses, and in severe cases, prescription steroid eye drops.
If herpes virus is the cause, antiviral medications may be necessary.
Treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis
Bacterial cases are often treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments applied several times a day for up to a week.
This shortens the duration and reduces contagiousness.
Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis
Avoiding allergens is the best approach. Antihistamine drops, vasoconstrictors, steroids, or mast cell inhibitors may help.
Cold compresses often provide soothing relief.
Prognosis
Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild, self-limiting, and heal without permanent damage.
To prevent spreading infections, it is advised to avoid close contact with others until symptoms improve.
This article is based on information from Medicial News Today.