Facts About Pink Eye

 Are Pink Eye And Conjunctivitis The Same Thing?

One of the first facts about pink eye you should know is this. Pink eye and conjunctivitis are the same thing. Pink eye is an eye infection that due to inflammation of the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. These are called the conjunctiva, and so inflammation in these areas is known as conjunctivitis.

When you have pink eye or conjunctivitis, the infected eye looks pink or even reddish.

What causes conjunctivitis? Usually, pink eye is caused by bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents that come in contact with the conjunctiva. But pink eye is caused by a number of diseases too.

These causes are classified as either infectious or non-infectious. Infectious pink eye is caused by the same bacteria and viruses that cause colds, sinus infections and sore throats. Sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea may also be contributing factors.

Non-infectious pink eye is caused by allergens like grass, ragweed pollen, animal dander, and dust mites, along with chemicals like such as chlorine, certain kinds of soap and air pollutants like smoke and fumes. Hay fever is another frequent cause.

When is pink eye contagious? One of the most common questions asked about pinlk eye is "Is pink eye contagious?" There are actually two answers to the question. Infectious pink eye is contagious, but non-infectious pink eye is not. For more information, see our article "When Is Pink Eye Contagious?"

Pink eye signs and symptoms Signs and symptoms caused by viral or bacterial pink eye include

• Watery eyes accompanied with discharge
• Irritation
• Usually starts with one eye and can spread

Signs and symptoms of non-infectious pink eye might include

• Heavy tearing
• Irritation and itchiness
• Usually effects both eyes
   

What to do when you have pink eye Pink eye requires the same kinds of treatment as many other contagious ailments. Medication usually isn't necessary for pink eye, except in small children. Talk to the child's pediatrician.

Antibiotics are generally ineffective for viral strains. Antibiotics may be helpful with bacterial forms however.

A warm wash cloth may be applied to dissolve the discharge. Special eye drops sometimes available that may help relieve inflammation and redness. Talk to your doctor.

Allergic pink eye may require anti-inflammatory medications, antihistamine medications, and eye drops. These will sometimes relieve redness and itching. Removing the causes of the allergy or irritation is important.

See medications for treating pink eye.

If you think you have pink eye, here are some other common sense steps to take.

• Don't touch your eyes with your hands
• Wash hands before and after using eye medications
• Don't share towels, washcloths, cosmetics or eye drops with anyone
• Don't let children who have pink eye near other kids.

Children often get the bacterial or viral forms of pink eye, but the condition can strike anyone at any age. It's fairly common and generally it doesn't cause long term damage. Pink eye often goes away on its on, but anyone with symptoms should consult their health care professional.

Always remember, your best source of information on pink eye infection remedies and treatment is your doctor.

Dogs and cats can also get pink eye. See our article on pets and pink eye.