Pink eye, also known as Conjunctivitis, is an infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers the eyeball and lines the eyelid. When blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed, they become visible, resulting in the whites of the eyes appearing pink or red. Symptoms include pain, irritation, or itchiness in the eyes, as well as discharge. Pink eye is quite contagious but is treatable in most cases.

What are the Symptoms of Pink Eye?

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, has various types of symptoms. The most common symptoms include: redness in one or both eyes, which is generally the initial symptom of pink eye; itchiness, pain, or irritation in one or both eyes; crusty discharge in one or both eyes that causes difficulty in opening the eyes upon waking; and tearing in some cases.

What Causes Pink Eye?

Pink eye has various causes. Common causes include: viral and bacterial infections, with the most common virus being Adenovirus, and other viruses such as Coronavirus and Herpes simplex virus. Allergens, such as pollen, can also cause pink eye as a reaction to allergens causes the body to produce antibodies that activate the mucous lining of the eyes, releasing inflammatory substances.

Accidental exposure to chemicals or foreign objects can also cause pink eye. In newborn babies, a blocked tear duct is often the cause of conjunctivitis, and bacteria present in the mother's birth canal can also cause pink eye. To prevent pink eye in newborns, relevant eye ointment is applied to the baby's eyes soon after birth.

What are the Ways to Avoid Conjunctivitis?

To avoid catching pink eye, one should follow these precautions:

• Avoid touching your eyes with your hands, and if you do, wash your hands before touching your eyes
• Always use a clean napkin and towel, and do not share them
• Avoid using items belonging to an infected person, and if you share items with someone who has pink eye, disinfect them before using them
• Use clean pillow covers and bed sheets
• If you wear contact lenses, make sure they are clean and disinfected
• Do not share your glasses, goggles, or eye makeup products with anyone
• Do not share eye cosmetics or personal eye care items
• If you experience pain, redness, or irritation in the eye, contact a doctor immediately.

How is Pink Eye Cured?

In most cases, the treatment for pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is focused on providing relief. It typically includes the use of artificial tears and cold or warm compresses. Maintaining proper hygiene and cleaning the eyes regularly are also crucial for recovery. For allergic conjunctivitis, prescription eye drops and medications that control allergic reactions and inflammation may be used.

Final Thoughts

Eye pain is a discomfort or ache felt in or around the eye area. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as infection, injury, dry eyes, or certain medical conditions. Pink eye (Conjunctivitis) is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It is usually caused by an infection or allergy and is characterized by red, itchy, and swollen eyes and sometimes discharge. Both eye pain and pink eye can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medication, as well as by addressing the underlying cause.