Pink Eye or Conjunctivitis

Pink eye occurs in the clear membrane over the white part of the eye, known as the conjunctiva, causing the eye to look bloodshot. The pink or red color is due to inflammation, and pinkeye may also cause an itchy feeling.

There are several types of pink eye, so how can you tell what type you have? Generally speaking, the way your eyes feel will give some hints:

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

Conjunctivitis can come about by a virus, bacteria, an allergic reaction (to dust, pollen, smoke, fumes or chemicals) or a foreign body on the eye.

Your eye doctor may provide medication, depending on which type of pink eye you have. Viral conjunctivitis does not usually require medication because it usually clears up on its own within a few days. Antibiotic eyedrops will clear up bacterial conjunctivitis, whereas antihistamine allergy pills or eyedrops will help control allergic conjunctivitis symptoms. For giant papillary conjunctivitis, your eye doctor might prescribe eyedrops to reduce inflammation and itching.

Usually, conjunctivitis is a minor eye infection, but sometimes it can develop into a more serious condition. Visit your eye doctor for a diagnosis before using any eyedrops in your medicine cabinet from previous infections or eye problems.

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