Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye infection that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva — the thin layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. It can affect anyone, but it is particularly common in children.
In this article, we will discuss 11 symptoms of pink eye that may indicate an infection and the possible causes behind them. Pink eye is highly contagious and can be easily spread through contact with infected fluids. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about pink eye with a search online right now, which could help you spot early symptoms.
Redness
One of the most common symptoms of pink eye is redness in the whites of the eye. The conjunctiva becomes inflamed and causes the blood vessels in the eye to become more visible, giving the eye a pink or reddish appearance.
Tearing
Pink eye can cause excessive tearing or watering of the eyes. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which can cause the eye to produce more tears than normal.
Chronic Itching
Pink eye can cause chronic itching or a sensation of itchiness in the eyes. This can be caused by the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Thick and Unsightly Eye Discharge
Another common symptom of pink eye is thick, unsightly eye discharge. The discharge can be white, yellow, or green and can make the eyelids stick together.
Eyelid Swelling
Pink eye can cause swelling of the eyelids, making them appear puffy and swollen. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Burning Sensation
Pink eye can cause a burning sensation in the eyes, which can be quite uncomfortable. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Feeling Grit in the Eye
Pink eye can cause a feeling of grit or sand in the eyes. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Tender Lymph Nodes
Pink eye can cause the lymph nodes around the ears to become tender and swollen. This is due to the body’s immune response to the infection.
Blurred or Altered Vision
Pink eye can cause blurred or altered vision, making it difficult to see clearly. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Sensitivity to Light
Pink eye can cause sensitivity to light, making it difficult to be in bright environments. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Contact Lenses Move Around
If you wear contact lenses, pink eye can cause your lenses to move around or feel uncomfortable in your eyes. This is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Causes of Pink Eye
A common cause of pink eye is a viral or bacterial infection. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can be spread through contact with an infected person’s fluids, such as tears, mucus, or saliva.
Bacterial conjunctivitis can also be spread through contact with an infected person’s fluids or by touching an object contaminated with the bacteria. Pink eye can also be caused by allergies, such as hay fever or exposure to irritants, such as smoke, dust, or chemicals.
Treatment of Pink Eye
The treatment of pink eye depends on the underlying cause of the infection. For viral conjunctivitis, the infection will usually clear up on its own within a week or two without treatment. To help alleviate the symptoms, you can use artificial tears to soothe the eyes, and apply a warm compress to the affected eye for a few minutes a few times a day. Bacterial conjunctivitis, on the other hand, may require treatment with antibiotic eye drops or ointments to help clear up the infection.
If pink eye is caused by allergies, antihistamine eye drops or oral medications may be recommended. In addition, avoiding allergens and irritants can help prevent the recurrence of symptoms. In cases of severe pink eye or when the infection is not responding to treatment, your doctor may recommend steroid eye drops or other medications to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Prevention of Pink Eye
A great way to prevent pink eye is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your eyes with your hands, and avoiding sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, and makeup with others.