Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, occurs when the conjunctiva becomes irritated or infected. The conjunctiva is the thin, clear tissue that lines the surface of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Pink eye symptoms vary depending on the cause. Mild cases may clear up within a few days, while more severe cases can affect vision. Here are some warning signs of pink eye.

Eye irritation is one of the most common symptoms of pink eye. It includes burning and itching. The patient may feel a gritty sensation, like having a foreign object in one or both eyes. These symptoms can be uncomfortable but rarely painful.

Pink eye causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, making more blood vessels visible than usual. As a result, the whites of the eyes may appear pink or deep red. In children, eye redness is often one of the clearest signs of pink eye that adults can easily notice.

The conjunctiva in people with pink eye can become puffy, and the eyelids may swell. In some people, the lymph nodes around the ears also swell.

The conjunctiva is made up of smooth tissue layers that secrete mucus, similar to the lining of the nose and mouth. When inflamed, the tissue produces discharge that ranges in texture from watery to thick and pus-like, depending on the cause of the pink eye. Eyelashes may also stick together. Watery or thick discharge can blur vision. Patients should consult a doctor if vision changes do not improve after rinsing the eyes with artificial tears.

Most mild cases of pink eye do not affect vision. However, severe cases can scar the cornea, permanently altering vision. People with conjunctivitis should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as intolerance to bright light or blurred vision. These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread beyond the conjunctiva.

Treatment for pink eye usually focuses on relieving symptoms. Mild cases can be managed with measures such as using artificial tears, cleaning the eyelids with a wet cloth, and applying cold or warm compresses several times a day. If you wear contact lenses, you should stop wearing them until the infection clears up. Antibiotics are not effective for viral conjunctivitis. Treatment focuses on symptom relief, and recovery can take two to three weeks. For allergic conjunctivitis, medication helps control the allergic reaction.

Bao Bao (According to Health, Mayo Clinic)