Pink Eye

The eyes are covered with a transparent membrane called the conjunctiva, and when it gets inflamed, this causes the pink eye condition.

Pink eye

Pink eye occurs when there is an inflammation in the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane that covers the eyes.

Conjunctivitis is a very common condition, and it could affect one or both eyes. It also can be acute or chronic.

Causes of pink eye

• Viral infections, especially adenovirus, which is the most common cause of acute conjunctivitis.
• Bacterial infections, like the bacteria that cause strep throat and staph infections.
• Fungal and parasitic infections.
• Allergic conjunctivitis.
• Certain substances that might be irritants or toxic, including the contact lenses and their solution.
• Eye injuries and traumas.
• Health conditions, such as eye cancer or tumors.

Symptoms of pink eye

• Eye redness.
• Eye pain.
• Thick eye discharge.
• Dry eyes.
• Watery eyes.
• Itchiness, burning, and irritation.
• Feeling that something is stuck in the eye.
• Crusting on the eyelashes or eyelids.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Blurred vision.
• The pink eye condition can lead to trachoma, uveitis, and inflammation in the cornea.

Diagnosis of pink eye

• Eye exam.

Treatment of pink eye

Treating pink eye depends on relieving the symptoms, and it usually includes:

• Artificial tears, cleaning the eyelids, and applying warm or cold compresses.
• Medications, depending on the cause of conjunctivitis.
• You can reduce the risk of pink eye by practicing good eye hygiene. This includes washing the hands frequently, especially before touching the eyes, not sharing things that touch the eyes, and wearing eye protection when doing something that might hurt them.