The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the white portion of the eye. This membrane can become infected or inflamed and result in a condition called conjunctivitis, more commonly known as “pink eye.” Conjunctivitis has several different causes, some infectious and some non-infectious. The symptoms, severity, and proper treatment all depend on the underlying cause of the case of conjunctivitis. Remember that if you think you have pink eye, it is important to visit your optometrist to correctly diagnose and treat the condition.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Viral Conjunctivitis
One of the most common causes of pink eye is viral conjunctivitis. This form of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and, as the name suggests, is caused by a viral infection. It is transmitted by hand-to-eye contact, or can be spread via airborne transmission such as coughing or sneezing. Viral conjunctivitis cases are frequently associated with respiratory infections like the common cold. Because it is highly contagious, those with viral conjunctivitis should exercise extreme caution and good hygiene.
Viral conjunctivitis is characterized by watery, red eyes that are very uncomfortable and painful. There may be discharge coming from the eyes that is usually worse in the morning. In severe cases, the eyelids can be extremely swollen. It most commonly begins in only one eye and spreads to the other eye after a few days. Just like most viral infections, viral conjunctivitis is self-limiting and will begin to improve on its own after about a week. There are no eye drops that can completely eliminate the infection, and antibiotic eye drops are ineffective in treating this condition. Most of the time your optometrist will recommend lubricating eye drops to improve your comfort, or they may consider gentle medications to help reduce some of the inflammation in the eye.
You may have heard that the novel coronavirus is associated with a form of pink eye. There have been reports that a mild viral conjunctivitis can be an early sign in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Protecting the eyes in addition to the nose and mouth can be important in preventing the transmission of this dangerous virus.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Another infectious and contagious form of pink is caused by a bacterial infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be transmitted by contact with an infected person or a contaminated object. Symptoms typically include red swollen eyes and thick mucus-like discharge. Luckily, cases of bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with topical antibiotic drops. Just like normal antibiotics, this medicine eliminates the bacteria responsible for the infection within 1-2 weeks and help relieve symptoms.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Seasonal allergies oftentimes cause a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. This form of conjunctivitis is not infectious or contagious; it is simply caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to particles like pollen or dust. The tissues around the eye typically become red and very itchy, and severity of symptoms may fluctuate throughout the year. The condition tends to be more prevalent in pollen-heavy seasons, particularly the spring and fall. There are several different over-the-counter or prescription medications that reduce inflammation and relieve the uncomfortable symptoms associated with allergic conjunctivitis.
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