Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the thin, transparent tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Pink eye is highly contagious, especially in viral or bacterial infections, and it can spread quickly in schools, daycare centers, and other crowded environments.

What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye occurs when the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed, making them more visible and giving the eye a red or pink appearance. The hallmark signs of pink eye include redness, swelling, itching, and discharge from the eye. It may affect one or both eyes and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens.

Viral Pink Eye

Viral conjunctivitis is the most common form of pink eye and is highly contagious. Symptoms include watery discharge, redness, itching, and sensitivity to light. Viral conjunctivitis often starts in one eye and spreads to the other. While there is no specific treatment for viral pink eye, it usually resolves within a few days to two weeks.

Bacterial Pink Eye

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by a bacterial infection characterized by a thick, yellow, or green discharge from the eye. It can also cause redness, swelling, and a gritty sensation in the affected eye. This form of pink eye is highly contagious and can spread through contact with infected surfaces or personal items like towels or makeup.

Without treatment, bacterial conjunctivitis can lead to more serious eye problems, so it’s important to seek medical care if you suspect a bacterial infection.

Allergic Pink Eye

Allergic conjunctivitis is triggered by pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold. Unlike viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, allergic pink eye is not contagious and often affects both eyes simultaneously. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, tearing, and swelling. Some people may also experience sneezing, a runny nose, or other allergy-related symptoms.

Diagnosing Pink Eye

To diagnose pink eye, an eye care professional will thoroughly examine and review your symptoms. They may use a slit-lamp exam to examine the eye’s structures closer or take a sample of any discharge to determine whether the cause is bacterial, viral, or allergic. Accurate diagnosis is key to ensuring the proper treatment, as managing viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis differs significantly.

When to Worry About Pink Eye

If you experience severe pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or intense redness in one or both eyes, it’s important to see an eye doctor immediately. Additionally, if your symptoms persist for over a week, worsen over time, or are accompanied by fever, it’s essential to seek medical care. Rarely, pink eye can lead to corneal ulcers or other complications that may affect vision.

Treatment for Pink Eye

Viral conjunctivitis typically doesn’t require medical treatment and will clear up independently, though lubricating eye drops and cold compresses can help ease symptoms. Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment, which help reduce the duration of the infection and prevent it from spreading. Allergic conjunctivitis can be managed with antihistamine drops and by avoiding known allergens.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, don’t wait to seek professional care. At Total Eye Care, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all forms of conjunctivitis to help you get relief and protect your vision. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced eye care team.

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