Pink Eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and is often highly contagious.

Symptoms of Pink Eye

The symptoms of pink eye can vary depending on the cause of the condition, but common symptoms include:

• Redness in the eye or eyes
• Itching or burning sensation in the eye or eyes
• Discharge from the eye or eyes, which can be clear, white, yellow or green
• Swollen or puffy eyelids
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Crusting of the eyelashes upon waking
• Blurred vision
• Tearing
• In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.

Causes of Pink Eye

Pink eye can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Allergens
• Irritants such as smoke, chemicals, or makeup
• A foreign object in the eye
• An underlying medical condition, such as blepharitis or dry eye

Treatment for Pink Eye

The treatment for pink eye will depend on the underlying cause of the condition:

• Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within 7-10 days.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically treated with antibiotics in the form of eye drops or ointment.
• Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines.
• Irritant conjunctivitis can be treated by removing the irritant and using lubricating eye drops.
• A foreign object in the eye can be removed by a healthcare professional.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have pink eye, as they can properly diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

At Annapolis Health, our team of experienced healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality care for patients with pink eye and other eye conditions.