Ever noticed extreme itching with your eye turning pink? Well, this pink eye in medical terms is known as conjunctivitis. It is a common eye condition that is caused by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer that covers the white part of your eye and the interior part of your eyelids.

This eye condition leads to redness, itching, excessive tearing, and extreme discomfort. Usually, it is mild and gets better within a few days but if it increases persistently it can require some medical intervention. Thus it is important for an early diagnosis for the essential treatments.

In this article, you will get to have a comprehensive idea about Pink eye, its causes, treatment, and how to prevent it. It will help you get an idea of what you have and what you have to do to prevent or cure it.

Causes of Pink Eye

Here are some of the factors that can trigger pink eye, according to these the severity and the line of treatment are approached by the doctors. 

1. Viral Conjunctivitis

• This is caused by viruses like adenovirus
• Highly contagious and spreads through direct contact
• The symptoms of viral conjunctivitis are watery discharge, redness, itching, and light sensitivity

2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

• This is caused by bacterial infections.
• It often results in a thick yellow or green puss-like discharge
• It can spread through contaminated hands, shared towels, or improper use of contact lens

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

• Often triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, or mould
• This is not contagious
• The symptoms include intense itching, redness, watery discharge, and swelling.

4. Conjunctivitis From Irritation

• This can be caused by exposure to smoke, chemicals, or foreign particles
• Symptoms gradually improve once the irritant is removed

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Depending on the type and severity, symptoms may include:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Itching or burning sensation
• Excessive tearing
• Swollen eyelids
• Thick or watery discharge, which may crust overnight
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision in severe cases

Diagnosis and Treatment

Pink eye can be easily diagnosed by an eye care professional via physical examination and by evaluating the symptoms. In some critical cases, the eye discharge can also be tested to understand the cause.

Here are some of the prominent treatment options that one can go through when suffering from pink eye.

Treatment Options:

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Usually self-limiting; managed with cold compresses, artificial tears, and proper hygiene
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Requires antibiotic eye drops or ointments prescribed by a doctor
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Managed with antihistamines, eye drops, and avoiding allergens
• Irritant Conjunctivitis: Rinsing the eyes with clean water and avoiding irritants can provide relief

Preventing Pink Eye

Preventive measures can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading Pink Eye:

• Wash hands frequently and avoid touching the eyes
• Avoid sharing towels, pillows, or cosmetics
• Disinfect contact lenses and their cases properly
• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Stay away from allergens if prone to allergic conjunctivitis

When to See a Doctor?

Although Pink Eye often resolves on its own, seek medical attention, and consult an ophthalmologist if:

• Symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week
• There is intense eye pain or vision problems
• A thick green or yellow discharge forms
• You have a weakened immune system

Conclusion

Pink eye is a common eye condition that every individual faces once in their lifetime. It is often mild but may sometimes be severe and require some professional guidance. To treat pink eye at home or in an eye care hospital, it is important to know what caused it to determine the necessary care and how to prevent it in the future.