Conjunctivitis, also commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane that covers the white part of your eye and lines the inner surface of your eyelid.
Both viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious. They can spread through direct contact with an infected person’s secretions, such as through hand-to-eye contact or sharing items like towels or pillows. It’s essential to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the eyes, and avoiding sharing personal items when infected with pink eye to prevent spreading it to others.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, include redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid, increased tearing, a thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes (especially in bacterial conjunctivitis), itching or burning sensation, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and in viral conjunctivitis, sometimes symptoms similar to a cold such as a runny nose or sore throat may accompany it.
There are three main causes of conjunctivitis:
- Viral: This is the most common type of conjunctivitis. It’s highly contagious and is often spread through contact with infected people or objects.
- Bacterial: This type of conjunctivitis is less contagious than viral conjunctivitis but can be more severe. It can be caused by bacteria that normally live on the eyelashes or skin.
- Allergic: Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
- Redness of the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye)
- Gritty feeling in the eye
- Itching of the eye
- Watery discharge from the eye
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Feeling like there is something stuck in your eye
- Swelling of the eyelids
In most cases, conjunctivitis is a mild condition that goes away on its own within a week or two. However, it’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Pus or a thick discharge from the eye
- Symptoms that don’t improve within a week or two
Conjunctivitis (pink eye): Book a consultation
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