Commonly known as "pink eye," is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids.
Eye infections, often referred to as conjunctivitis or “pink eye,” involve inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent membrane that lines the inner eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. This condition can affect one or both eyes and may be caused by infections, allergies, or exposure to irritants.
What Is Conjunctivitis?
When the blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen and irritated, the eye takes on a pink or red appearance. Conjunctivitis can range from mild to severe and is one of the most common eye complaints seen in both children and adults. It may be contagious depending on the underlying cause.
Causes of Eye Infection
Conjunctivitis is generally divided into infectious and non-infectious types.
Infectious Causes
- Viral Conjunctivitis Often linked to viruses such as adenovirus. It spreads easily and may accompany cold symptoms, sore throat, or respiratory infection.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus. It may occur due to poor hygiene, contaminated cosmetics, contact lens misuse, or touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections Certain STIs—such as chlamydia or gonorrhea—can cause more severe forms of conjunctivitis. These cases are less common but require prompt medical treatment.
Non-Infectious Causes
- Allergic Conjunctivitis Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or cosmetic products. It often presents seasonally or during exposure to specific triggers.
- Irritant Conjunctivitis Caused by exposure to smoke, wind, chlorine, fumes, or small foreign particles.
- Chemical Conjunctivitis Occurs when harmful chemicals such as cleaning agents or industrial solutions contact the eye.
Common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
Although symptoms vary by cause, many signs overlap:
- Pink or red eyes from inflamed blood vessels
- Itchy or irritated eyes, especially in allergic cases
- Watery discharge or thicker yellow/green mucus in bacterial or viral infections
- Gritty or sandy sensation in the eye
- Swollen eyelids or puffiness
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Crusted eyelashes, especially in the morning, commonly seen with bacterial infections
Treatment and Management
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- Viral conjunctivitis often clears without medication; cool compresses may help.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis usually requires antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
- Allergic conjunctivitis may improve with antihistamine drops and avoiding triggers.
- Chemical or irritant conjunctivitis requires immediate rinsing and avoidance of the offending substance.
Anyone experiencing persistent, painful, or worsening symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Prompt care helps prevent complications and limits the spread of contagious forms.
