Pink eye is another term used for the medical condition known as conjunctivitis that results in an inflamed and swollen eye. Conjunctivitis mustn’t be confused with the pink eye that often results from an environmental allergy. Both of these conditions share similar symptoms but often the causes and subsequent treatment practices applied tend to be different. People can suffer from a pink eye at any stage in life and can be highly contagious, so it is important that you learn to identify the main triggers to seek treatment in the case of conjunctivitis.
In this OneHowTo article we help you learn how to know if you have a pink eye for sure.
Pink Eye Causes
A pink eye is caused as a result of an external pathogen, often a bacteria or virus, that inflames and dilates the blood vessels in the eye. People often think of pollen, dust or pet hair as the most common eye irritants that cause pink eye. However, conjunctivitis is perhaps more common as a result of a virus or bacteria.
Viral conjunctivitis may develop as a result of contracting a common cold. Aside from a puffy nose and a sore throat the viral infection can spread to the eyes causing a pink eye. Also, improper care of the eye as a result of keeping contact lenses on overnight or bad eye hygiene can develop into bacterial conjunctivitis.
Pink Eye Symptoms
Upon first appearance you will quickly notice the most common symptom of conjunctivitis is red or pink colored eyes. The white area of the eye will appear irritated and swollen. Additionally, you might notice that your eyes are watery; they itch even if you don’t touch them and may hurt when looking right and left. You might also notice light sensitivity and feel relief when you close your eyes.
A common characteristic of bacterial conjunctivitis is noticing a yellow or green discharge on the corner of the eye, especially after waking up. More severe cases may show a high fever, shaking chills or moments of vertigo. This is an indication that you must seek the help of a medical professional.
Pink Eye Treatment
If you think you have a pink eye due to conjunctivitis consult your eye doctor to eliminate other possibly diagnoses such as corneal ulcer or blepharitis. Also, make sure to bring your contact lenses for inspection if you suspect they might be causing your symptoms.
Most pink eye cases don’t require any special treatment. Over the course of a few days most symptoms will disappear. You can also apply a damped washcloth in cold water over your eyes to help with the inflammation or other homemade remedies. In the case of bacterial conjunctivitis your eye doctor may prescribe antibiotic creams or eye drops to kill the bacteria.
Pink eye cases are common due to the high risk of contagion. For that reason, it is important to avoid touching your eyes, washing your hands as frequently as possible and using trustworthy brands for eye products.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
If you want to read similar articles to How to Know if you Have Pink Eye for sure, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.