Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink pye,” is the swelling of the conjunctiva. This protective layer covers the sclera and lines the inside white part of a person’s eyelid. It provides eye protection that prevents microbes from entering the eyes and lubricates them as mucus and tears are produced. A person having conjunctivitis may experience itchiness, irritation, excessive tearing, and burning of the eye. They may also feel a foreign object stuck within the eye surface, urging them to rub and scratch the infected eye area.
Viral conjunctivitis is contagious and can be transmitted when a person touches the infected eye and contaminates objects that can come in close contact with another person. In addition, the eyes excrete a watery substance. Frequent hand washing and keeping away from others is needed to avoid spreading the virus.
Bacterial conjunctivitis, on the other hand, can occur due to various bacterial species. Its signs and symptoms are typically the same as the different types of conjunctivitis (viral and allergic) and must require a thorough diagnosis for proper medical treatment. Mucopurulent discharges result from bacterial conjunctivitis leading to sticky eyelids (especially in the morning).
