Conditions
PINK EYE
Symptoms & treatment for pink eye
It describes a symptom when your eye turns pink or red. This is most commonly caused by infection or allergies. In medical term, it is called conjunctivitis. It can also be due to other causes.
4.6 Stars
What are the causes of pink eye?
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Allergies
- A chemical splash in the eye
- A foreign object in the eye
- In newborns, a blocked tear duct
The rash is created by the body’s release of histamines & other chemical messengers into the skin, in response to a trigger (allergen, infection, temperature change, or medication). The skin responds by opening up the blood vessels & releasing fluid into the tissues.
What are the symptoms of pink eye?
- Your eye might turn pink or red
- There might be weep or liquid
- Become itchy, burn or gritty
- Your eye might get stuck shut, especially in the morning
Should I see a doctor?
Yes. You should see a doctor to get it evaluated and treated, especially if there is no improvement in 3 days. Sometimes, it can be something more serious than simple infection or allergy.
Can pink eye spread to others?
Yes, if it is truly an infection. It is usually transmitted via contact, which means people can catch it from touching something that has been in contact with an infected person’s eye.
WHAT WILL THE DOCTOR DO?
- The doctor will take detailed history
- Your vision and eye reflexes would be checked
- The doctor might prescribe eye drops and give advice according to the diagnosis
- You might be referred to see eye specialist if the doctor thinks it is more than just simple infection or allergy
* Recently, there are a few eye infections reported amongst rugby players who were exposed to mud whilst playing at the Turf City and Dempsey fields. It might be due to a rare parasitic eye infection. Do let your doctor know if you have been in contact with soil or mud.
