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It is not uncommon for your eyes to itch or feel irritated. This could be due to seasonal allergies, a dry office environment or something more serious such as pink eye (also known as viral conjunctivitis). It’s important to know the signs and how to get relief from uncomfortable symptoms.
If you think you have pink eye, try our "Do I have pink eye" quiz to see if you have some common symptoms. Remember it is best to see your doctor for testing and treatment if symptoms are recurring. While some cases of pink eye are mild and resolve quickly with home care, other cases can progress into complications if left untreated.
What is pink eye?
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an eye infection. This can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The term “pink eye” refers to the eye’s normal redness, which is caused by blood vessels in the eyes.
A more accurate term for the condition is “conjunctivitis,” which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that result in inflammation of the tissue that lines the eyelid and eye socket.
Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and spreads through the mucous membranes of the eye by direct contact with infected fluids or particles of dust or dirt that contain the virus.
Pink eye symptoms
Pink eye causes mild to severe irritation, redness, and swelling of the eye.
Other symptoms include:
- Itching
- Gritty or watery eyes
- A feeling of heaviness in your eyelids
- Blurred or double vision
- Discomfort when you blink.
- In some cases, your eyelids may be swollen or crusted shut.
Try the pink eye quiz to see if you have some other symptoms that can be a sign of conjunctivitis.
How do you get pink eye
You can get pink eye from other people by coming in direct contact with their saliva, tears, or eye secretions. Pink eye can also be spread through contaminated items such as towels, washcloths, pillowcases, or even makeup brushes.
It is important to clean these items with hot water and soap to avoid re-contaminating yourself or others. Wearing clean, disposable contact lens daily can reduce your risk of infection.
Pink eye can be highly contagious, but it can be treated. If you have mild pink eye, you may be able to self-treat with over-the-counter medications to ease your symptoms.
How long is pink eye contagious
The length of time you are contagious depends on the type of pink eye you have. Bacterial pink eye is contagious for a shorter period than viral pink eye, which can last as long as two weeks.
Pink eye treatment
If you suspect you have pink eye, it’s important to visit your doctor for an exam and treatment. Pink eye that is left untreated can result in permanent damage to the eyes and eyelids.
The "Do I have pink eye quiz" will also give your some tips on how to treat your conjunctivitis as fast as possible.
Your doctor will prescribe you a course of antibiotics for bacterial pink eye, antiviral eye drops for viral pink eye, or a combination of both. You must complete the entire course of treatment, even if you begin to feel better before the end of the prescription. Doing so ensures complete eradication of the infection.
What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?
Several conditions are frequently misdiagnosed as pink eye.
Allergic conjunctivitis: This is a common condition in which your eyes are itchy, red, and watery due to seasonal allergies. If you have allergies, your doctor can recommend treatment, such as allergy eye drops, that will ease your symptoms.
Dry eye: The eyes can become dry when your tear glands don’t produce enough tears. It is a common condition that occurs in both eyes and can be treated with artificial tears.
When should you see a doctor for your Pink Eye?
If you are experiencing any of the pink eye symptoms listed above, it is important to visit your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
If you have bacterial pink eye, you will be prescribed an antibiotic to kill the infection. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if you are feeling better, to avoid relapse.
If you experience persistent pink eye or worsening symptoms, it is best to get a second opinion. Your doctor may be able to recommend a new treatment or suggest using a different antibiotic, which could clear up your pink eye quicker.
Conclusion
To find out of you haver some of the symptoms related to conjunctivitis, you should try the pink eye quiz to see if you really have pink eye or not.
Pink eye is an eye infection caused by a virus or bacteria. While pink eye can be contagious, it can be treated with antibiotics.
If you have symptoms of pink eye, it is best to see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.