Pink eye is a common term for conjunctivitis. This common eye condition can be defined as a redness and inflammation of the membranes that cover the whites of the eyes. Conjunctivitis will also affect the membranes on the inner parts of the eyelids.

Pink eye may be caused by many different things. It can be caused by a bacteria or a virus. Pink eye can also be caused by allergies, toxic agents and sometimes by underlying diseases in the body. Pink eye can be classified as noninfectious or infectious depending on the cause.

 A viral infection is the leading cause of pink eye. This type of viral infection will produce a watery discharge from the eye. The eye infection may be accompanied by cold like symptoms and sinus congestion. Pink eye will cause swollen eyelids and sensitivity to bright lights. Viral pink eye is highly contagious and it will resolve in seven to ten days after the first symptoms appear.

Bacterial pink eye will produce a large amount of yellow or greenish discharge from the eyes. This will usually accumulate after sleeping and make it impossible to open your eyes in the morning because they are stuck shut.

The treatment for bacterial pink eye is antibiotics that are prescribed by your doctor. Applying a warm wash cloth to the affected eye can help with the swelling and discomfort.

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