What Exactly is "Pink Eye?"

What is “Pink Eye?”

In my practice I have many people come in complaining of a "pink eye". An eye can look pink for many different reasons. If you rub your eye or get something in it it may appear pink due to the irritation. However, the term “pink eye” generally refers to a severe and highly aggressive and contagious form of viral conjunctivitis that is formally called epidemic keratoconjunctivitis or EKC. This condition may require medical treatment that is not available over the counter. A visit to the doctor will most likely be needed.

Symptoms Are Bothersome

Conjunctivitis is very bothersome and annoying. Most likely you will know that something is amiss and you will want it remedied as soon as possible! The most common and uncomfortable symptoms are redness in the eye, increased tearing and discharge. This discharge will most likely cause crusting in your eye when you wake up after sleeping. Other symptoms include itchiness and a burning sensation in your eye. Your vision may also be affected. You may not be able to see as clearly and you may be more sensitive to light.

Causes of Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis has several causes, and the treatment depends on what caused it. Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria (including sexually-transmitted bacteria), viruses and irritants or allergens. Some forms can be serious. Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria will most likely require anti-bacterial and possibly other eye drops. Viral conjunctivitis may most likely clear up on its own but your eye doctor may prescribe medications, like anti-inflammatory eye drops to ease your symptoms and help make you more comfortable. If your condition was caused by an irritant or allergen, that cause will need to be dealt with appropriately, whether it be by simply washing it out or taking other measures like allergy products. Also, specific eye treatment may be needed as well.

Be on the Watch out for Pink Eye in Children

First, if you see anything awry in a newborn or infant’s eye, see an eye doctor immediately. Regarding children of any age, it is also important to seek immediate medical help so that it can be treated as soon as possible and also so that it does not spread to other children. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is spread easily by children who may not or cannot take precautions on their own to stop the spread of it.

As with any eye symptom, always consult a physician.