Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Symptoms and Signs

Conjunctivitis or “pink eye”, as it is more commonly known, consists of a redness and swelling of the conjunctiva membranes which cover the whites of the eyes. Additionally, the membranes found in the inner portion of the eyelids are also commonly affected by the conjunctivitis.

While the causes of this membranous inflammation may be attributed to any one of several factors, pink eye most commonly affects children. Some of the contributing factors to this eye malady may include: 

• Bacteria
• Irritating elements
• Agents produced by allergy
• Toxic agents and viruses 

Likewise, many illnesses found in the body may be a cause; however, conjunctivitis typically may be classified as either a noninfectious or infectious eye disease. 

Symptoms/Signs of Conjunctivitis

Viral Conjunctivitis

Many times associated with respiratory tract infections or even the common cold, its most common indications include a clear, watery discharge and itch which may form a crust during night time. Considered to be highly contagious spreading easily from one eye to the other, the most common signs include: pink-reddish color in the eye, itchiness and a scratching feeling in the eye.

While the initial symptoms may be more prominent during the first week, they can persist for up to two weeks ending with a gradual dissipation.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Similar to viral conjunctivitis, this pink eye form may include indications such as: pain/swelling in the eye, redness, itching and a yellow/greenish discharge. Other prevalent symptoms include: tearing, alternating itching/burning feeling and sensitivity to light. 

Because of its bacterial nature, if an accompanying cough or running nose is present, antibiotic eye drops and oral medication may be needed to successfully treat any infection.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Indications of allergic pink eye being present may consist of the following: intense itching, tearing, inflammation of the eye’s membranes and varying minimal pain. 

While this form of pink eye is very common, it is mainly due to allergies such as hay fever, skin eruptions, asthma or allergic reaction to a agent.However, the most common causing agents are: environmental pollen, animal fur/saliva, perfumes, dust mites and eye drops.

Chemical Pink Eye

This typically appears when an irritant/toxic material accidentally splashes into the eye. Common symptoms may show a prominent redness and may be present in the lower sac of the eye.

Red eye

Having a condition of “red eye” may be a sign of a more serious eye condition or even of a possible medical emergency. Red eye is usually painless; however, it covers most if not all of the white of the eye. There are several possible causes which may include: chronic eye dryness, use of eye drops, irritating contact lens and an eye injury.

Severe/extreme cases of red eye can result in optic neuropathy, or optic nerve damage, which may result in partial/complete blindness.

The causes and symptoms of conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye, are diverse. However, it is best to seek medical advice in order to determine just what is the root cause of the condition.