Pink eye symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction or a virus in the majority of cases. A pink eye is a term used to explain the redness that occurs on the white part of the eye and inside the eyelids. The white part of the eye is known as the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva frequently gets irritated from many conditions, particularly allergies. When an allergic reaction occurs, the end result is a pink eye or conjunctivitis. The typical symptoms of a pink eye include redness, excess tearing, itching or mild pain
There are many causes of pink eye and include allergic reactions, viral infections, exposure to chemicals and fumes or excess drying of the eye. Allergic reaction and viral infections usually tend to affect both eyes.
The symptoms of pink eye are usually obvious. Many people complain of a foreign body sensation. Other symptoms commonly present with a pink eye include
Excess tearing
Many individuals complain that the eyelids appear stuck first thing in the morning and there is a crusty appearance on the eye lids
Symptoms of pink eye often occur after exposure to fumes, chemicals, dust, smoke or upper respiratory tract infections
Besides tears, some individuals may also have a thin clear discharge which is more common along the nasal part of eye
Mild pain and burning are also common symptoms for pink eye
Many individual also complain of a foreign body sensation
There is mild pain when facing bright lights
In long standing cases symptoms for pink eye may also be associated with development of small pea sized swellings (lymph nodes) around the ear or in the neck
In some cases, a number of family members may have a pink eye at the same times especially if the cause is a virus
Even though pink eye is a harmless eye condition, one should never assume that all pink eye manifestations are due to an allergic reaction. There are other eye disorders which can present with similar symptoms. A stye (inflammation of the glands in the eyelid), Blepharitis (dermatitis of the eyelids) or a foreign body can present with identical features. Moreover, a virally induced pink eye is extremely contagious and you can easily pass it on to others. While most pink eye symptoms and treatment are manageable at home, a visit to the eye doctor is recommended if there is fever, extreme eye pain, yellow or green discharge, blurred vision or the redness fails to improve in 5-10 days. Pink eye symptoms and treatment are not difficult if the correct diagnosis is made. Remember pink eye symptoms occur in both eyes, so if one only one of your eyes is affected then you do not have a pink eye.