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Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

What is pink eye?
Commonly referred to as pink eye, conjunctivitis is inflammation under the eyelid and in the eye itself. As suggested by the official name of the disorder, the conjunctiva is the part of the eye itself that becomes inflamed. This part of the eye is the outermost layer, which is why the inflammation and irritation typically includes the inside of the lid.

Is there more than one type of conjunctivitis?
Yes. Most commonly experienced is acute allergic conjunctivitis. This is the redness and watery eyed symptoms associated with any type of allergy, frequently related to animal and seasonal outdoor allergies. It may also derive from allergies to perfume, cosmetics, drugs, or smoke. With allergy related conjunctiva both eyes are typically affected.

Another origin of conjunctivitis is bacterial infection within the conjunctiva; most often a consequence of pyogenic bacteria. Bacterial conjunctiva usually initiates within one eye, but can easily spread to the other. These types of bacteria usually come from the individuals own skin, human to human contact, environmental deposits/transfer from insects and animals, and occasionally from sources including lotions or make-up that have stimulated some level of bacteria growth within their containers. (One example of cosmetics as the source of bacterial conjunctivitis versus the allergic form is when consumers use the same tube of mascara for too long. By repeatedly touching one or more person’s skin and eye fluids, then being placed back into an almost air tight container, any bacteria that has transferred to the brush will then transfer to the remaining mascara inside. In the tube there is a perfect environment for breeding due to moisture and protection for extended periods of time.)

Viral conjunctivitis is another variation of the disorder. The source of viral conjunctivitis is typically from an array of viruses similar to those that give us colds. This can be transferred much like a cold can be among humans, but it is not nearly as common as other occurrences of viral infections. Viral conjunctiva also typically originates in just one eye, but can also transfer to its pair quite easily.

What are the signs and symptoms?
Conjunctivitis is referred to as “pink eye” among the general population because, like any inflammation in the human body, the outward signs include redness, swelling, and excretion of fluids. Conjunctivitis leads to watering of the eye, itching and burning, and enlarged tissues and cells in the afflicted area. A person suffering from pink eye may even awaken to an eye that is severely swollen and sealed shut. It is tempting to rub to eradicate the itch within the area; however, that is not a preferred reaction since it will only lead to more discomfort and irritation, and depending on the type of conjunctivitis, it may even exacerbate and spread the irritation or infection. Another possible symptom of conjunctiva could be a feeling of grit or dust in the eye. The eye may feel like it has particles causing irritation, but in reality there is nothing there.

What are the solutions?
The treatment of conjunctivitis completely depends on the cause of the problem. If it is an allergic reaction then the options include taking an antihistamine or anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and irritation. Also, using artificial eye lubricants, such as various brands of over the counter eye drops, can be effective in relieving the symptoms. If the discomfort is the result of a bacteria infection then medical attention is usually necessary. A doctor may prescribe medicinal eye drops along with an antibiotic to eradicate the infection that is causing the symptoms within the eye.

There is no cure for viral infections, as with any other virus the body may contract elsewhere. Relief may be found by placing a cool compress over the inflamed area, and using artificial tears. Only time will completely alleviate the complications and cause of the irritation.