Pinkeye (officially known as conjunctivitis) is a highly contagious and common condition where the membrane that lines the white of your eyes and eyelids becomes inflamed. Viral and bacterial infections are often the culprits for pinkeye, which typically resolves itself within a few days without any required treatment. If you suspect you have pinkeye, it’s important to go to the doctor just in case. Here are some warning signs that you may have pinkeye:
- Eye redness is usually the first noticeable symptom on pinkeye. It can occur in different areas in the eye and in varying degrees. Typically, however, the redness occurs in the white of the eyes and the inner eyelids.
- Pinkeye can manifest itself when you have a hot, burning sensation in your eyes. It is typically coupled with other symptoms, however. So if your eyes are burning from something as simple as smoke in the air without any other symptoms, it may not be pink eye. See your eye doctor is this burning sensation doesn’t go away after a few days, as it could be an indicator of something else.
- Itchy eyes.The level of itchiness in the eyes varies from person to person. One thing is sure, however, if itchiness is persistent with no relief in sight, you might have pink eye.
- Watery eyes.If your eyes just can’t stop watering, it could be your body’s way of trying to get rid of an eye infection naturally. In addition to tearing, you may see a thicker substance draining from your eyes.
- Blurred vision.Trouble seeing clearly isn’t a primary symptom of pink eye, but it can happen.
- Infection or cold.Bacteria and viruses can cause pink eye, which can be accompanied by symptoms found with a cold or allergies like sneezing or a scratchy throat, or by a respiratory infection.
- Red bumps.Pink eye can make your eyes swell, and sometimes bumps can form under your eyelids. This may be more apparent if you wear contact lenses. If you’re suffering from pinkeye, refrain from wearing your contacts and wear eyeglasses instead until the infection goes away.
- Swollen lymph nodes.When your lymph nodes are enlarges, it can be a sign that your body is combating infection, and that infection could be pink eye.
- A crust may form in the eye as a result of pinkeye, often overnight after you’ve been sleeping.
To reduce your risk of getting pink eye, wash your hands regularly to avoid infection, never share eye makeup or contact lens equipment with others, regularly replace your hand towels and wash cloths, and wear eye protection on windy, hot or cold days to prevent against eye irritation.
Are You Interested in Learning More About Causes and Treatment of Pinkeye?
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