What is pink eye? What causes it and what are some of the steps that one can take to prevent or control it?

Pink eye is an infection of the conjunctiva, which lines the eyelid and protects the white part of the eyeball. Inflammation to the conjunctiva’s blood vessels causes the eyes to become pink or even red. It is an infection often caused by viruses or bacteria. It is sometimes a reaction to allergies, chemicals, and sun and wind exposure. ​

Though it is quite uncomfortable, pink eye often does not affect vision and various treatments can help ease irritation of pink eye.

​Pink eye is contagious and the best way to stop it from spreading is to undergo early testing and treatment. Without medical treatment, pink eye tends to get better in just over a week.

​Pink eye is largely spread due to improper washing of the hands or sharing towels or items with a person who has the infection.

A respiratory virus called adenovirus usually causes viral pink eye. It is also possible to develop viral pink eye from herpes. When a virus causes pink eye, it often treats itself and symptoms improve on his or her own. While medicine does not treat the virus, it can help prevent spreading and discomfort. Pink eye cases are more serious if the body currently has a weakened immune system that makes it harder for the body to battle infection. It is also more serious if you can only see out of one eye or typically wear contacts. 
 
Bacterial pink eye occurs due to bacteria entering the eye. Infections that are related to pinkeye include gonorrhea, Haemophilus influenza type B and Staph infection. Bacterial pink eye often causes the upper eyelid to swell, the eye to release yellow or gray drainage and redness of the eye. 
 
Contact wearers should immediately remove contacts and use glasses until pink eye is completely gone. Contacts must be cleaned thoroughly and stored properly in order to prevent spreading. 

Compresses, warm or cold, can help relieve the pain. Bacterial pink eye can benefit from a warm compress while cold compresses should reduce pains for pink eye caused by allergies.

​Drainage is a common occurrence with pink eye.

​The best way to wipe your eyes during pink eye is to start from the inner area and move out. Each wipe should be done with a clean area of wipes or tissues. Immediately discard the objects and wash hands thoroughly to prevent spreading. ​

also check out:

• What is conjunctivitis? What causes it and what are some of the steps that one can take to prevent or control it?
• ​What one can do as first-aid in case of accidental spraying of liquids such as household cleaners, perfumes, etc. in the eyes​
• Caring for your eyes – how to relieve eye-tiredness and ways to relax eyes and de-stress​
• ​What is Macular Degeneration? What Causes It? What are some of the Steps that one can take to Prevent/Control it?

​Categories: 
Wellness

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