Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Viral conjunctivitis is the most common cause of pink eye, accounting for about 80% of cases.

Pink eye can cause a variety of symptoms, including redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, tearing, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, and sensitivity to light.

Pink eye can be spread through contact with infected eyes or objects, coughing or sneezing, sharing towels or washcloths, and touching your eyes after touching something contaminated.

Pink eye can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in children. People who wear contact lenses, people with allergies, and people with weakened immune systems are also at increased risk.

The duration of pink eye depends on the cause. Viral conjunctivitis typically lasts 1-2 weeks, while bacterial conjunctivitis can last 2-3 weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis can last for several weeks or even months.

You should see a doctor for pink eye if you have severe pain or vision problems, if your symptoms do not improve after a week, if you have a weakened immune system, or if you wear contact lenses.

Pink eye can be prevented by washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your eyes, not sharing towels or washcloths, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated.

There is no cure for viral conjunctivitis, but the symptoms can be treated. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with antibiotics. Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers.

Cold compresses, warm compresses, saltwater rinse, and green tea bags can all help to relieve the symptoms of pink eye.

You should seek medical attention for pink eye if your symptoms do not improve after a week, if you have severe pain or vision problems, if you have a weakened immune system, or if you wear contact lenses.

Corneal ulcer is the most common complication of pink eye. It is a serious infection of the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye.

Pink eye can be prevented by washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your eyes, not sharing towels or washcloths, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated.

The treatment for pink eye depends on the cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotics. Viral conjunctivitis is treated with antiviral medications. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers.

The duration of pink eye depends on the cause. Viral conjunctivitis typically lasts 1-2 weeks, while bacterial conjunctivitis can last 2-3 weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis can last for several weeks or even months.

Pink eye can cause a variety of symptoms, including redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, tearing, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, and sensitivity to light.