Pink eye is an infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers the eyeball and lines the eyelid. It is also known as Conjunctivitis. When blood vessels in the Conjunctiva become inflamed, they become visible, and the whites of your eyes appear pink or red. Pink eye causes pain, irritation, or itchiness in the eyes along with discharge. it is quite contagious but treatable in most cases.

What Are The Symptoms Of Pink Eye?

• Pink eye has various types of symptoms. The most common are:
  Redness in one or both eyes is generally the initial symptom of pink eye.Itchiness, pain, or irritation in one or both eyes also indicates pink eye.
• Crusty Discharge in one or both eyes that causes difficulty in the opening of the eyes on waking up.
• Conjunctivitis can also cause tearing in some cases.

What Causes Pink Eye?
The Reasons for pink eye are as follows:

• Pink eye is usually caused by viruses and bacteria and is many a time accompanied by a cold, cough, or a sore throat. The most common virus identified for this infection is Adenovirus. In some cases, viruses like Coronavirus, Herpes simplex virus, etc. can also be the sources of pink eye.
• Allergens like pollen also cause Pink eye. As a reaction to allergens, our body produces antibodies. These antibodies activate mast cells of the mucous lining of the eyes and airways. These cells, in turn, release inflammatory substances, including histamines. Histamine can cause several allergic symptoms, including red or pink eyes.
• An accidental chemical entrant or a foreign object can also cause pink eye.
• A blocked tear duct is often the genesis of conjunctivitis in newborn babies. Moreover, bacteria present in the mother’s birth canal can also cause pink eye. Application of relevant eye ointment to the baby’s eyes soon after birth prevents pink eye.

What Are The Ways To Avoid Conjunctivitis?
To avoid catching pink eye, one should follow these things:

• Avoid touching your eyes with your hands and in case you do, wash your hands before touching the eyes.
• Always use a clean napkin and a towel. Do not share your napkins and towels.
• Avoid using things of an infected person. If you stay in the same vicinity and use some common things disinfect them before using them.
• Use clean pillow covers and bed sheets.
• If you use contact lenses make sure they are clean and disinfected.
• Don’t share your spectacles, goggles, or eye makeup products with anybody else.
• Don't share eye cosmetics or personal eye care items.
• In case of pain, redness, or irritation in the eye, contact a doctor immediately.

How Is Pink Eye Cured?

In most cases, treatment is usually focused on relief. It comprises artificial tears and cold or warm compresses. Constant cleaning of the eyes and taking care of hygiene play an important part in recovery. 

The prescription for allergic conjunctivitis includes different types of eye drops. It also includes medications that help in controlling allergic reactions and inflammation.

Final Thoughts

Pink eye is a common eye ailment, especially in children. It rarely causes long-term problems, but it is advisable to consult a doctor. Untreated pink eye may result in inflammation of the cornea and vision-related problems.