{"id":1277,"date":"2017-11-17T07:44:31","date_gmt":"2017-11-17T07:44:31","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=1277"},"modified":"2021-03-15T21:14:40","modified_gmt":"2021-03-15T21:14:40","slug":"10-real-answers-causes-pink-eye","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/10-real-answers-causes-pink-eye\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Real Answers to What Causes Pink Eye"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"Pink Eye, also called Conjunctivitis, is common. It appears as redness, swelling, and an itching sensation around the eye. It can appear in one or both eyes. It is caused by viruses, bacteria, and more. What appears as Pink Eye sometimes is actually Red Eye, which has very similar symptoms, but is slightly different. Pink Eye should be quarantined. Red Eye does not need to be. No one likes to use their vacation days to enjoy pink eye alone at home, but\u2026 if it prevents another victim\u2026 it\u2019s worth it!<\/p>\n

First line of defense against Pink Eye is hand washing. Second line of defense is not sharing washcloths or face towels with other people. It is convenient in that it will clear up on its own, within about ten days. This is good news for your pocket book, even though it is mildly irritating due to the itchiness and less than desirable appearance. So, if at all possible, it would be preferable to avoid it all together. Here are 10 informative bits that can help you to avoid getting pink eye to begin with, or at least understand why you have it, if you have acquired it already!<\/p>\n

1. Viral infections<\/h3>\n

Pink Eye<\/a> caused by viruses is very contagious. Also, there is no medical treatment for viruses, so even more so\u2026 this type is preferred to be quarantined! The virus most commonly responsible is the adenovirus. This virus often credible for upper respiratory type infections, such as a sore throat.<\/p>\n

The herpes virus can also cause this type of pink eye infection. Unique symptoms of pink eye specific to this type include swollen or tenderness in front of ears, excessive tears, and whitish discharge. If you have an impaired immune system, the rule that this clears up on its own will likely be impaired, and you should seek medical attention. Also, pink eye of this variety caused by the herpes virus does have medical treatment available.<\/p>\n

\"\"2. Bacterial infections<\/h3>\n

When Pink Eye is caused by bacteria, the culprit may be staph, Haemophilus influenza type b, cat scratch disease, or Gonorrhea<\/a>. Symptoms unique to this type include slightly more discharge and of grey or yellowish color, eyelashes sticking together, and swelling of the upper eyelid. Some mild pain may be present as well.<\/p>\n

This is how you can figure out which type of Pink Eye you may have. This type is extremely contagious as well, and so isolation is the golden standard here. This type does have treatment with antibiotics, however. So, healing time can be cut in half with these.<\/p>\n

\"\"3. Allergies<\/h3>\n

The following causes are not contagious. When allergies<\/a> are the culprit to pink eye, pollen, make-up, dust, pets, or mold may be involved. Be sure to clean your living spaces and your pets to help out. Some allergies such as pollen and plants are difficult to avoid.<\/p>\n

In these cases, you may opt for homeopathic or more traditional medication options to help you get through the day. This type of pink eye is not contagious, so work may continue as usual. If the redness is in one eye and not the other, it is not likely to be attributed to this type.<\/p>\n

\"\"4. Dryness due to wind exposure<\/h3>\n

While the term \u201cpink eye\u201d does not apply specifically to this, the term \u201cred eye\u201d which is more general and includes pink eye does. It may be confusing because the symptoms are similar, which is why the following causes are included in numbers 4-10.<\/p>\n

When the lining of the eye dries too much, it is unable to function properly which causes itching<\/a> sensation and redness. It is the same area that is affected as with pink eye, but it is not contagious. This can be fixed with eyedrops and reduced wind exposure.<\/p>\n

\"\"5. Dryness due to tear absence<\/h3>\n

The absence of tears can present a major problem for certain individuals. Surgeries<\/a> and other procedures are options to try to fix the problem, as well as medical grade eye drops (a simpler solution to surgery).<\/p>\n

Make sure to do your research as to what your options are for solutions to this issue, and be relieved that this is not contagious so it will not affect your ability to be around others. It is not uncommon so do not feel bad or unusual if this applies to you. Simply look into your options if it is causing disturbance for you.<\/p>\n

\"\"6. Chemicals (Chemical Conjunctivitis)<\/h3>\n

These days, we use a lot of chemicals, though\u2026 not everyone takes the precautions prescribed for usage. Chemicals may have dastardly effects on the delicate surface of the eye. While not rare, it is dangerous and potentially destructive.<\/p>\n

If you think chemical conjunctivitis<\/a> is your culprit, look into reducing the number of chemicals (cleaning or otherwise) you are using in your home or email the higher-ups in your workplace if you believe further safety precautions need to be adhered to for safety there.<\/p>\n

Chemical conjunctivitis is not contagious, but it can be detrimental to your health and quality of life.<\/p>\n

\"\"7. Fumes (Chemical Conjunctivitis)<\/h3>\n

This is similar to the other forms of red-eye, I that it is not contagious, but does cause pinkness of the eye and itchiness or irritation<\/a>. It\u2019s symptoms tend to vanish upon relief of the source (no more fumes), but, if your symptoms continue, go to a doctor as soon as possible.<\/p>\n

Loosing your eyesight is nor worth the risk of waiting, in many people\u2019s opinion. Depending on how toxic the fumes that entered the eye were, the results vary extremely.<\/p>\n

If this happens, look up the chemical you believe entered your eye to see how toxic it is. You can always call 800-CDC-INFO to speak with someone about any chemicals you have come into contact with.<\/p>\n

\"\"8. Smoke (Chemical Conjunctivitis)<\/h3>\n

This form of redness of the eye is not contagious and tends to relieve itself hours after the source of smoke is gone. Extreme cases may take up to 24 hours for the eye to restore itself to its original state of homeostasis<\/a> and health.<\/p>\n

Eye drops may be used to promote and encourage the healing process. If a person is ever around smoke, they would want to allot for eye goggles or a mask to protect the eyes if it will be for prolonged periods of time.<\/p>\n

\"\"9. Foreign bodies<\/h3>\n

When contacts are worn too long, this may cause redness and irritation of the eye. The eye or eyes may feel extremely dry and scratchy. Small particles of dirt may enter the eye, even if initially undetected, that may cause long-term irritation, masking as pink eye, when in reality, it is just red eye<\/a>.<\/p>\n

While still majorly irritating, there are some products that can be bought at CVS or Walgreens or Walmart that help to clean the eye of debris that may be causing this type of irritation.<\/p>\n

Do research on the Internet, reading reviews, so you do not waste your time or money on a product that does not work well, before buying.<\/p>\n

\"\"10. Make-up<\/h3>\n

While this was mentioned in the allergen<\/a> and foreign bodies sections, it needs its own section due to the prominence of it. Millions of women wear make-up on a regular basis, which is why this cause is being highlighted here.<\/p>\n

Also, if they are unaware that this is a cause of redness and irritation of the eye, they may not allot to change the make-up they are using, in order to resolve the problem. Research what is in your make-up.<\/p>\n

The more nature, usually, the better. Make sure to research if you hare having problems with a particular brand or product.<\/p>\n

\"\"11. Blocked Tear Ducts<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Conjunctivitis infection starts in the eye after a few hours of the virus, bacteria<\/a>, or fungi lodging itself in the tear ducts. In some cases, the tear ducts become blocked, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure and inflammation od surrounding tissues. If the blockage remains undrained, it starts to back up fluids that usually drain out of the tear duct. As a result, these fluids may become infected, furthering the spread of the bacteria, virus, or fungi in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

The affected individual may notice an intensity of irritation symptoms, and the eyelids become swollen and red. As the infection progresses, patients may see that they start to develop crusts on the corners of their eye, with a yellow-colored puss crystalizing. <\/span><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, there\u2019s no way to drain the tear duct, and you\u2019ll have to wait for the symptoms of your eye infection to decline to regain normal function of your tear duct.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"12. Contagion<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Pinkeye is a severely contagious disease. It\u2019s possible to catch it through handling remote controls or other household items that infected family members touch. You can also contract the pinkeye virus by touching surfaces contaminated with conjunctivitis fungi, bacteria, or viruses. We unconsciously touch our face all the time, and if you feel a contaminated surface and then rub your eyes, you risk contracting the disease<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

The immune systems in young children are still under development. Therefore, it makes them prone to catching viruses, such as pinkeye. If your child develops conjunctivitis, their nursery school teacher will recommend that you have them stay at home until the infection clears \u2013 to reduce the risk of your child spreading the disease to other school children.<\/span><\/p>\n

Most adults catch pinkeye from kids that bring it home from nursery school, and then the adults spread it among their family members and friends. If someone in your household has pinkeye, there a good chance you\u2019ll end up with the infection as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/span><\/p>\n

13. Using Contaminated Towels and Bedding<\/strong><\/h3>\n

As explained, conjunctivitis<\/a> is a highly contagious infection that spreads like wildfire throughout the community of infected individuals. If your kid brings it home from school, they\u2019ll most likely infect you and your partner. If you go to work with pinkeye, you\u2019ll probably spread it to your colleagues as well. <\/span><\/p>\n

However, if you catch the infection at work and bring it home to your family, the chances are that your partner is going to be the first person to develop signs of pinkeye. Sharing towels, bedding, or pillows with an infected person presents a high risk of cross-contamination.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you or anyone in your family develops pinkeye, its best to wash their sheets every day. Please make sure you wear rubber gloves when touching the bedding and towels they use, and toss them in the washer on a warm rinse cycle to kill the bacteria, virus, or fungi causing conjunctivitis.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"14. Contact Lenses<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

One of the causes for the development of pinkeye is wearing contact lenses for an extended period. If you use contacts instead of glasses, it\u2019s important to note that you have a higher risk of developing conjunctivitis. Contact lenses may trap the bacteria, virus, or fungi that cause pinkeye, resulting in the rapid onset of the condition. The irritation of the lens rubbing on an inflamed eyeball is excruciating, and you may have to remove your contacts until the infection clears. <\/span><\/p>\n

In some cases, the inflammation associated with the development of pinkeye will cause swelling<\/a> in the eyeball if the affected individual continues to wear their contacts. This effect results in complications with your vision that may extend for a few days after the infection subsides. <\/span><\/p>\n

Your doctor treats conjunctivitis with anti-bacterial, anti-viral, or anti-fungal eye drops that kill the invading particles responsible for the development of the condition. You should notice relief in the first 24-hours after starting treatment., Depending on the severity of the infection, it may take between a few days, to a couple of weeks for the condition to dissipate entirely.<\/span><\/p>\n\r\n

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