Causes and Treatment of Pink Eye
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What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is swelling and redness of the membranes (conjunctiva) on the inner parts of the eyelid and the eye surface. Pink eye is very common. It is usually not serious, and often goes away in a few days without medical treatment.

What Causes Pink Eye? Is It Contagious?
The leading cause of pink eye is a viral infection, which is highly contagious. Bacteria such as staphylococci, pneumococci, and streptococci cause bacterial pink eye, which is also very contagious. Non-contagious pink eye can result from allergies or exposure to chemical irritants. Rheumatic diseases, Kawasaki’s disease, and certain inflammatory bowel diseases can cause pinkeye. Additionally, dry eyes from lack of tears or exposure to wind and sun can cause pink eye, as can foreign bodies such as dirt or bugs.

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Symptoms of Pink Eye
- Viral conjunctivitis is often caused by an upper respiratory tract infection, and the cold-like symptoms that accompany such viral infections. Discharge is watery, rather than green or yellow.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis is often associated with eye pain, redness, tearing, irritation, and moderate to large amounts of discharge, usually yellowish or greenish in color.
- Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms usually include intense itching, tearing, and swelling of the eye membranes. Other typical allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy nose or scratchy throat may also be present.

Treatment Options for Common Pink Eye Infections

Viral Conjunctiva Treatment
Although most viral pink eye will not require antibiotic treatment, sufferers should still see their doctor. This type of pinkeye can be associated with infection of the cornea, which requires early detection and treatment. Symptoms of viral pinkeye can be relieved with cool compresses and artificial tears. In extreme cases, topical steroid drops may be prescribed to reduce discomfort.

Bacterial Conjunctiva Treatment
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are generally prescribed for bacterial pinkeye. Moderate to large amounts of discharge accumulates during sleep, resulting in the sensation of the eyes being “stuck shut” upon awakening. Applying a damp, warm wash cloth to the eyes, being careful to use a different washcloth for each eye, will remove the discharge.

Allergic Conjunctiva Treatment
Over-the-counter decongestant eye drops can relieve seasonally occurring allergic pinkeye. Cold, moist wash cloths can also be applied to the eyes. Again, care should be taken to use a different cloth for each eye. In extreme cases, a prescription may be necessary.

Tips for Administering Eye Drops to Young Children
Rather than frightening a child by forcing the eye open while the bottle or dropper is plainly visible, try this: ask the child to lie back and close his or her eyes. Place the recommended number of drops in the inner corner of the eye, next to the bridge of the nose. The drops will form a little pool and when the child’s eyes open, the drops will flow gently into the infected areas without a fuss.

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