Pink eye

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is caused by inflammation of the conjunctiva – the thin, clear membrane over the white part of the eye and eyelids. The most obvious symptom of pinkeye is, naturally, a pink eye. The pink or red color is due to the inflammation in the conjunctiva. The eye also may hurt or itch.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, an allergic reaction or, in the case of giant papillary conjunctivitis (see below), a foreign body on the eye, such as a contact lens. Bacterial and viral systemic infections also may cause conjunctivitis. There are four types of pinkeye, each with its own unique symptoms.

• Viral conjunctivitis usually affects only one eye, and causes excessive eye watering and a light discharge.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis affects both eyes and causes a heavy discharge, sometimes greenish.
• Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes, and causes itching and redness in the eyes and sometimes the nose, as well as excessive tearing.
• Giant papillary conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes, and causes contact lens intolerance, itching, a heavy discharge, tearing and red bumps on the underside of the eyelids.

Pink eye is most commonly treated through prevention and medication. You can help avoid contracting pink eye through such easy measures as washing your hands frequently, not rubbing your eyes and not sharing items like washcloths, towels, eye drops or cosmetic applicators. Medication is not normally prescribed for viral conjunctivitis, as it normally clears up on its own within a few days. Antibiotic eye drops help cure bacterial conjunctivitis, while antihistamine allergy pills or eye drops help control allergic conjunctivitis symptoms. For giant papillary conjunctivitis, your doctor may prescribe eyedrops to reduce inflammation and itching.

If you suspect that you may have pink eye, and you currently are in need of an eye doctor, call 952-993-3150.