The Viral Conjunctivitis (pink eye) Causes and Treatments

Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as the viral pink eye infection, is a prevalent eye condition known for causing redness, itching, and discharge. It can result from bacteria, viruses, or allergies. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can spread easily through contact with infected eyes, hands, objects, or surfaces.

Why conjunctivitis is Called Pink Eye?

The reason why conjunctivitis is called pink eye is because it causes an inflammation of the clear tissue (the conjunctiva) that lines the outside surface of your eye and the inner surface of your eyelid. The tissue that keeps your eye moist turns red due to the inflammation making the whites of the eye appear reddish pink.

What causes conjunctivitis?

Multiple factors can result in pink eye including bacteria, viruses, allergies, and irritants.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common type of conjunctivitis. It is caused by bacteria that can spread easily through contact with infected eyes, hands, or surfaces. Bacterial conjunctivitis is often accompanied by a thick, yellow, or green discharge from the eye.

Viral conjunctivitis is another common type of conjunctivitis. It is caused by viruses, such as the adenovirus, which is also responsible for the common cold. Viral conjunctivitis is often accompanied by a watery discharge from the eye, as well as other symptoms of a cold, such as a runny nose and sore throat.

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Allergic conjunctivitis is often accompanied by redness, itching, and watery discharge from the eye.

Irritant conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to irritants, such as smoke, chlorine, or cosmetics. Irritant conjunctivitis is often accompanied by redness, itching, and a burning sensation in the eye.

In some cases, conjunctivitis can be caused by a combination of factors. For example, a person with bacterial conjunctivitis may also have an allergic reaction to the bacteria.

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How is viral conjunctivitis spread?

It is important to note that conjunctivitis is contagious and can spread easily through contact with infected eyes, hands, or surfaces. It is important to wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before touching your eyes. You should also avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and pillows with others who have conjunctivitis.

If you think you or your child may have conjunctivitis, it is important to see a doctor right away to get a diagnosis and treatment. There are several different treatments available for conjunctivitis, depending on the cause.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious but pink eye caused due to allergies is not. The condition can be passed on easily in the same way as other bacterial and viral infections can spread. For children, the infection remains contagious as long as the child has matted or tearing eyes.

The time between becoming infected and symptoms showing up can be anywhere in between from 24 to 72 hours. Doctors recommend the infected person limit contact as bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can spread through minimal physical contact, such as hand shaking as well.

As a precautionary measure, it is recommended to practice good hygiene.

When to see a doctor?

If you have conjunctivitis, it is important to see a doctor if:

• Your symptoms are severe or do not improve with home treatment.
• You have other symptoms, such as fever, rash, or sore throat.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• You have a weakened immune system.
• Your doctor can diagnose the underlying cause of your conjunctivitis and recommend the best course of treatment.

What is the treatment for pink eye?

The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the underlying cause. However, some general measures can be taken to relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment. These medications can help to kill the bacteria and clear up the infection. Antibiotic eye drops are typically used for 5-7 days, while antibiotic ointment may be used for 7-10 days.

In addition to antibiotic treatment, it is important to take preventative measures to not spread the bacteria.

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is usually not treated with antibiotics, as they are ineffective against viruses. However, there are some things you can do to relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection:

• Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.
• Use cool compresses on your eyes to help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Use artificial tears to relieve dryness and irritation.
• Stay home from work or school until your symptoms have cleared up.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is treated by avoiding the allergen that is causing the reaction. If possible, you should also take over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants to help relieve symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, such as mast cell stabilizers or eye drops containing steroids.

Irritant conjunctivitis

Irritant conjunctivitis is usually treated by removing the irritant from the eye. For example, if you are exposed to smoke, you should move to a smoke-free environment. If you are using a new cosmetic, you should stop using it and see if your symptoms improve.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe artificial tears or other medications to help relieve symptoms.

Preventative measures to take:

To prevent the spreading of the disease, practicing good hygiene is most important. 

• Avoid touching your eyes.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before touching your eyes.
• Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and pillows with others who have pink eye.
• Avoid swimming in pools that may be contaminated with pink eye bacteria.
• If you have pink eye, stay home from work or school until your symptoms have cleared up.

Conclusion

Pink eye is a condition that affects people of all ages, so much so that it is estimated that almost 6 million people contract the infection per year in the USA alone. By taking adequate preventative measures and medication if required, one can treat it at home. But, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a doctor immediately.

(The information in this article should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice.)