Protect Yourself Against Pink Eye! 2v3h34

Jun 16, 2015

Having pink eye doesn't mean you're looking at the world through rose-colored glasses. It's actually a really gross eye infection that you need to know about. Get the 411 right here.

Pink Eye - What Is It? 5v205g

Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane that covers the sclera (the white part of the eye) and lines the inside of the eyelids. The correct name for this eye infection is conjunctivitis, but people call it pink eye because pink or red. Though it can be pretty uncomfortable, pink eye won't affect your vision!

Pink Eye - What Causes It? 3ui2c

Pink eye is usually triggered by an allergic reaction, or when you come into with a virus or bacteria.

Viral conjunctivitis is spread by the common cold.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by pyogenic bacteria (that's the kind of bacteria that makes pus).
Allergic conjunctivitis is more common in kids who have perfume.

Pink Eye - What Are the Symptoms? 6g6721

You already know that your eye turns pink, but here's what else you need to look out for.

Itchy, watery eyes.
A gritty feeling, like there's sand in your eyes - but there isn't.
A fluid discharge that can turn crusty.
Swollen eyelids.
Sensitivity to bright light.

Pink Eye - How Is It Treated? 6r348

Pink eye can clear up on its own, but it's best to see a doctor and get a prescription for antibiotic eye drops. You should see an improvement after a couple of days of treatment, even though it can take up to two weeks to clear up completely.

Pink Eye - How Can I Prevent It? 1w6r2r

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious, which means you can get it when you come into direct with someone who has pink eye or with something that person has touched, like a wash your hands frequently, don't touch or rub your eyes, and don't share make-up, eye drops, towels and washcloths.

Pink Eye - Did U Know? 3z5o3e

Pink eye is one of the top reasons why kids miss school.