Allergy season is upon us, and with it, can come pink itchy eyes. Yet pollen isn’t the only perpetrator of red uncomfortable eyes. People also get pink or red eyes from viral and bacterial infections. Nonetheless, “pink eye” is not a medical term. It is simply a sign that the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the interior lining of the eyelids, is irritated. Sometimes the only way to tell the cause of a red eye is to see your eye doctor, but the following will be a helpful guide.

What Are the Symptoms and Causes?

Contagious forms of pink eye are caused by a viral or bacterial infection. More commonly, pink eye occurs when allergens, dust and smoke irritate your eyes. Symptoms can help determine the type of pink eye:

• Allergic conjunctivitis causes itching, redness and excessive tearing in both eyes.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis often spreads to both eyes and causes a heavy discharge, sometimes yellow or greenish. Crusting may appear on eyelids.
• Viral conjunctivitis usually affects only one eye, which has excessive watering and a light discharge. Crusting on eyelids can occur.
• Dry eye causes redness, excessive tearing and a dry sandy feeling.
• Blepharitis is an ocular disease that causes redness, itching and irritation.

Who Is at Risk for Pink Eye?

People of all ages can get pink eye, but children are more prone to viral or bacterial conjunctivitis. Adults are more susceptible to dry eye, blepharitis, and red eyes from allergy or chemical irritants. Contact lens wearers are particularly vulnerable and should always use good hygiene and replace their lens as directed.

How Is It Diagnosed?

To diagnose pink eye, your eye doctor will examine your eyes with a special microscope and possibly collect a sample for analysis. Always see your eye doctor before using any existing eye drops in your medicine cabinet.

How Is It Treated?

Most types of pink eye are not considered serious or threatening and treatment – if necessary – depends on the cause. Antibiotic eye ointments or drops may help bacterial forms of conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis will usually clear up by itself within a week.

To avoid spreading pink eye, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes. If you wear contacts, do not wear your lenses until the condition is gone. If you have allergic conjunctivitis, artificial tears or antihistamines may help.

How Can I Prevent Pink Eye?

• Don’t share personal items, including towels, make-up, pillowcases. 
• Use tissues and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. 
• Avoid eye rubbing and touching. 
• Wash your hands often.
• Wear protective goggles when swimming.
• For allergic conjunctivitis, dust and vacuum.
• If you wear contacts, follow the cleaning and handling instructions and see your doctor regularly.

Despite all these precautions, you may still develop pink eye. If you do, as with any eye problem, always consult your eye doctor for treatment and care.