Is Pink Eye Contagious

Conjunctiva is a thin covering that is present at the white portion of the eye and inner layers of eyelids. Whenever viruses, bacteria or any allergen enter the eye, conjunctiva becomes inflamed. Inflammation of the conjunctiva is called conjunctivitis or pink eye. Viral and bacterial infections and allergic reactions can cause this eye ailment. Viruses that cause common cold and Streptococci and Staphylococci bacteria may be the causative agents for this eye ailment. Allergic conjunctivitis can occur from dust, pollens, aerosols and airborne chemicals. The use of eye drops or ointments after the expiration date can also be a contributory factor.

Symptoms

The symptoms of this eye ailment vary depending upon the type of infection. The most common symptoms include redness, itching and irritation. A viral infection is characterized by watery eyes with pus discharge and itchiness. In case of bacterial infection, one may get a yellow or green eye discharge along with a burning sensation in the eye. If the causative agent is an allergen, one may observe bumps around the eyes that may cause the eyes to look swollen, inflammation of the eyelids with itching and burning sensation. Eyelids may stick together while waking up.

Is pink eye contagious? It is seen that allergic conjunctivitis is not infectious as proper rinsing with water, many times in a day, can clear away the infection. But bacterial and viral infections could spread by contact. People can easily get the infection by touching the personal items of the infected person. Infants are more susceptible to bacterial infections and are treated with antibacterial ointments. The infection can be contracted within 3 to 14 days after the onset of infection.

Taking suitable preventive measures will help to combat against the infection. Do not share towels, washcloths, napkins and any object that has been used by the infected person. Wash your hands frequently with a good antibacterial soap, in order to avoid infection. Do not rub your eyes with your hands or any used cloth. Use soft tissues or napkins to clean the discharge. Do not wear contact lenses.

Treatment

Bacterial infection can be treated using antibiotics and eye drops. The antibacterial eye ointments help to kill the bacteria. Viral pink eye can be cured by the treatment of antiviral medications. Application of cool compresses will also help. If the infection is triggered by an allergen, atihistamines help to reduce the swelling of the eye. One can also use eye drops such as Patanol and Similasan. Warm compresses may also help. One should also use a warm cloth to remove the sticky and dried residues from the eyes. Erythromycin cream can be used for treating this bacterial eye infection in infants.

Since the causative bacteria and viruses can spread due to physical contact, measures should be taken to prevent these infections from spreading. Avoidance of the allergens will also help.