Conjunctivitis/Pink Eye
In the human eyes, there is a transparent and thin membrane called Conjunctiva. It covers the eye’s surface (front) and the eyelids (inner part). When a virus or bacteria infects this membrane, the white of the eye becomes pink, or it appears to be reddish. This inflammation is called Conjunctivitis (also known as Pink eye.)
Conjunctivitis is classified into three types: Viral conjunctivitis – the eye discharges a watery fluid. It is contagious and can spread quickly, especially in crowded places or through personal belongings such as towels, handkerchiefs, blankets, and clothes. It starts on one eye first and then spreads to the other eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis – the eye produces sticky pus, which causes the eyelids to stick together tightly when asleep or when the eyes are closed over a long time. And, Allergic conjunctivitis is triggered by allergic reactions from pollen, fumes, smoke, or other environmental pollutants. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious.
Contact lenses may cause conjunctivitis and heighten the pain if worn by a person who already has them. Therefore, it is recommended that if symptoms occur, the removal of contact lenses must be done immediately.
