Pink Eye (conjunctivitis) Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which are the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.

Although it can be irritating, it rarely affects vision.

Pink eye can develop due to the following causes:

Generally pink eye can be divided into the following types:

Affects one or both eyes
Viral conjunctivitis produces a watery discharge while bacterial produces a thick yellow discharge
Can be associated with colds or symptoms of respiratory infection

Some common symptoms of pink eye include the following:

Redness
Itchiness
A gritty feeling
A discharge that forms a crust during the night that may prevent your eye or eyes from opening in the morning
Tearing

In order to diagnose pink eye, the doctor will examine the eye and ask the individual about his symptoms and health history.

In case of allergic conjunctivitis, the doctor may take tests so as to identify the source of allergy.

A sample of eye secretion may be taken for laboratory analysis if:

There are different course of treatments depending upon the type of pink eye.