Eye Symptoms

Pink eye (Conjunctivitis) is a common condition heralded by the abundance of swollen vessels in the white of the eye that turns the eye red or pink. While irritation and redness are usually the signs of a harmless condition, it can also be a warning that there is something seriously wrong with the eye. In most people, especially in the young and healthy, a pink eye usually represents either an infection (bacterial or viral) or an allergy (Allergic Conjunctivitis). More severe warning signs and conditions are addressed below.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

An allergic, pink eye is often seen with Allergic Rhinitis (nasal allergy, see allergy medications). Itching and watering of the eyes is typically associated. This condition usually affects both eyes simultaneously and is treated with topical or systemic antihistamines. Many people with Allergic Conjunctivitis have a history of allergies or allergic conditions such as eczema, hives, or asthma.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial or Viral Conjunctivitis is very contagious, often running rampant in nursery schools and other locations with small children. It is transmitted by person-to-person contact; therefore, infected people should avoid rubbing their eyes and touching others or sharing clothing or pillows while infected. Viral Conjunctivitis is similar to Allergic Conjunctivitis in that it creates a watery, sometimes itchy pinkeye or eyes. Often the surrounding eyelids are slightly puffy. No treatment is required with Viral Conjunctivitis and it typically passes in two to three days.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is heralded by a sticky, crusty, or pus-like discharge. Often people with Bacterial Conjunctivitis say that they woke up with their eyes glued shut. Bacterial Conjunctivitis often starts in one eye and then spreads to the second if not treated. It requires topical antibiotics for at least one week.

Corneal Abrasion

The next most common condition causing pinkeye results from a corneal abrasion or injury. The cornea is the transparent, protective layer that covers the eyeball and protects it from the elements. Once injured, the cornea undergoes a localized inflammatory process that causes blood vessel dilation. Foreign bodies such as dry contact lenses or other particles may tear or shear the cornea. At times, patients do not know what caused the abrasion; the injury may even have occurred from movements during sleep. Abrasions can be very painful, but they often prove harmless, as a healthy cornea can completely heal itself within 24 hours. However, if the abrasion becomes infected, serious damage can be done to the eye.

You can self-treat this condition by applying topical antibiotic drops or ointments to protect the eye from infection, and by wearing an eye patch for a day or two. If you suspect you have a corneal abrasion, you may need to have foreign particles removed. This can only be reliably diagnosed by an examining physician. If there is no redness or painful inflammation, you may attempt to remove the particle by gently washing the area with water.

More Serious Eye Conditions

While most of the time, a pink or red eye is easily treated, it can sometimes be the sign of something much more serious. For instance, a sudden bout of eye pain and redness may be caused by an attack of glaucoma, called Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma. This condition may lead to blindness without immediate medical treatment. Always seek a physician’s help if you experience any fixed change in vision, pain, or bleeding, combined with a pink or red eye.