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What is Pink Eye?

woman holding hand over eyePink eye is a condition that almost everyone experiences at least once in their lives. While pink eye is not life-threatening, it pays to understand what pink eye is so that you can have it treated right away. If pink eye is allowed to progress untreated, this condition could last longer than necessary, keeping you from getting on with your work and personal life. Following is some important information about what is pink eye.

What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is characterized by an inflammation of the transparent membrane that covers the whites of your eye. This membrane is called the conjunctiva, and it also covers the interior of your eyelids. The official name for pink eye is conjunctivitis. The colloquial name for conjunctivitis is pink eye because it makes the whites of the eye appear pink or red.

Is Pink Eye Contagious?

There are a few different possible causes for pink eye. One of them is a bacterial infection, one is a viral infection, one is an allergic reaction and one is due to a clogged tear duct. If the pink eye is caused by an allergic reaction or a clogged tear duct, then it’s not contagious. Cases, where pink eye is due to bacterial or viral infection, can be contagious. Since there is no way to know the exact cause of the pink eye without a doctor’s help, it’s safer to assume that all cases of pink are contagious in order to avoid spreading it to others.

What Are The Symptoms of Pink Eye?

Pink eye symptoms are relatively common in everyone who experiences this condition. Symptoms include:

  • pink or reddish tint to the whites of the eye
  • very dry feeling in the eye
  • sand or grit feeling when blinking
  • heavy discharge
  • watery eyes
  • blurred vision

If you experience the symptoms of pink eye contact, your eye doctor right away. Don’t try to wait it out or treat pink eye with online recommended remedies. In addition, avoid rubbing your eyes. Your eye doctor will be able to diagnose the cause and treat your pink eye accordingly. Pink eye can lead to permanent eye damage if not treated correctly. Contact your eye doctor for more information.