What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is another name for conjunctivitis. It is also called the “madras eye”.  Pink eye is the inflammation of the outermost layer of the eye, the conjunctiva. The inflammation is caused due to infection of some bacteria or virus.

Conjunctivitis is of four major types. These are irritant/toxic conjunctivitis, phylogenic bacterial conjunctivitis, viral conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis. Pink eye is generally referred to as viral conjunctivitis.

Each of these has different signs. Variable redness is observed in allergic conjunctivitis. Edema (watery swelling) may be present all over the eyelid. It may or may not be accompanied by a mucoid discharge.

When eye appears to be very red it may be pyrogenic bacterial conjunctivitis. Discharge of opaque purulent discharge is noticed. Marked redness present only in lower conjunctiva sac represents the irritant or toxic conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is often mistaken to be a “ciliary infection”. In this the eyes appear pinkish.

Antibiotic ointments are given to treat pink eye. Medical treatment also includes antibiotic eye drops, oral and intravenous antibiotics. Anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-allergic drugs are also given for conjunctivitis treatment. Pain may be invariable so a safe painkiller like acetaminophen may be prescribed. Eyes need to be covered with black glasses always.

Prevention is better than cure therefore one must take necessary precautions. You must wash your hands and eyes frequently. Make sure you wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap. Avoid frequently touching eyes with hands.

Keep a check on your eye cosmetics and eye tonic. Discard them after few months. Do not share your eye drops with any one. Eye drops must be discarded after 30 days of opening. Do not share your towels and daily clothes with any one who has this problem. Do not lend your handkerchief to anyone. The discharge stays at the pillow covers so use a clean pillow cover every night.

Conjunctivitis often occurs due to unhygienic habits. Regular eye care will help you in keeping all eye troubles at bay.