PInkeye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the membrane that covers the whites of the eye and the inner part of the eyelid. When a person develops pinkeye, his eye appears reddened (hence the name) and may hurt or itch. The affected eye may ooze a crusty matter, especially overnight. This contagious condition is most often treated with a course of antibiotic eye drops or ointment. The causes of pinkeye are many, ranging from viral to environmental in nature.
Viruses
PInkeye is largely caused by the same types of viruses that cause people to catch colds and other minor illnesses. Not everyone who develops a cold will get pinkeye, but the potential is there. People who tend to rub their eyes throughout the day (spreading germs) are more susceptible to developing viral conjunctivitis. Washing hands frequently can help prevent viral pinkeye.
Bacteria
Pinkeye can also be caused by a bacterial infection. The same type of bacteria that develops into an ear infection or sinus infection can produce pinkeye at times. Infants whose mothers may have gonorrhea, chlamydia or other sexually transmitted diseases may be at risk for developing bacterial conjunctivitis during the birth process.
Allergies
Hay fever and other seasonal allergies may cause pinkeye. Ragweed and pollen can cause pinkeye in some people, particularly those who already suffer from outdoor or pet allergies. Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are no different than viral or bacterial pinkeye.
Environmental Factors
A variety of environmental factors can contribute to pinkeye. Exposure to chemicals in a polluted area, irritating facial soaps or prolonged use of contact lenses may all cause this kind of eye infection. Recurring cases of pinkeye may occur until the person has removed himself from the environmental trigger.
