The Causes of Pink Eye
Conjunctiva is
a thin membrane that protects the eye, especially the inner part of the
eyelid and the front part of the
eye. When there is some inflammation in the conjunctiva, then the
disease is called conjunctivitis or more commonly it is referred to as
pink
eye. Virus, bacteria and in some cases allergies are considered to be
the causes of pink eye.
The symptoms may vary depending upon the kind of infection with which
you are suffering. Staphylococci, pneumococci and streptococci are the
commonly known bacteria which are considered to be the causes of pink
eyes. Swelling and redness in the eyes accompanied by pain are the
symptoms
of pink eye. There are yellowish discharges and in severe cases the
discharge can be greenish in nature.
The most important cause of pink eye is viral infection; there are
innumerable viruses which can cause the problem. There are lots of
watery
discharges if you are suffering from pink eye. It is accompanied by
redness of eye and itching sensation in the eyes. Sometimes you may
even
suffer from diseases like the flu and a cold.
In the Middle East and Africa, Chlamydia is considered to be the causes
of pink eye. There are also allergic pink eye and chemical pink eye.
Chemical pink eye can result if some foreign particles enter into the
eyes; industrial pollutants, smog, household cleaners, even smoke if it
enters into the eyes, then the chances are there that the person will
get pink eye.
If your pink eye is seasonal in nature, then you may be suffering from
allergic pink eye. Dust and pollens are the allergens that can cause
pink
eye; this condition is generally associated with sneezing and sore
throats.
Conjunctivitis or pink eye is very contagious in nature and it is a
common phenomenon that if a person gets infected by the disease, then
whoever
comes in contact with him also gets infected by it. So a person who is
suffering from the disease should try to avoid going to public places
such
as schools, colleges and work places.
Proper cleanliness is very much required; wash your hands with soap the
moment you touch your eyes. Never touch any household items if you have
touched your eyes or water coming from the eyes.
Viral conjunctivitis is considered to be the most contagious; even
sneezing or coughing can result in the spread of the disease. All
towels,
handkerchief and other items used by the patient should not be used by
others without thoroughly washing them.
If you are able to maintain proper hygiene and take eye drops then
within few days you may get rid of the disease, but it is better to
consult
your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe certain medicine and eye drops,
but if your condition does not improver after three days, then revisit
for
a further checkup. Seeing your condition, he might even prescribe an
oral medication. Never leave the disease untreated because it may
damage
your eyes and affect your vision adversely.
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