The condition of pink eye, apart from its medical name of conjunctivitis, is also commonly referred to as ‘Madras Eye’. The eye becomes inflamed and reddens due to an infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva).

Pink eye is uncomfortable and extremely itchy, on occasions it may also be painful. If the symptoms of pink eye can be recognized, it can be the key point in both diagnosing and treating the infection while still in its early phase.

Some Common Signs of Pink Eye Infection.

a) Redness of the Eye. Medically know as Hyperemia, despite the term redness, viral conjunctivitis causes a pink colour to the eye, rather than red. Pink eye can also be accompanied by a sore throat and runny nose. Excess tears may be shed from the eyes, along with a feeling of grittiness and itchiness.

b) Eyelids Swollen. Apart from the white area of the eye appearing pink, the infection can cause the inner eyelid to become swollen, and appear red and inflamed.

c) Excess Tears. Although it is natural for the eyes to always be moist, pink eye causes excess continual tears, almost like nature is trying to wash away the irritation. This is especially the case if the sufferer has a common cold also.

d) ‘Something’ in the Eye Feeling. This is known in medical jargon as Keratoconjunctivitis, or in other words a continual feeling of having a foreign object in the eye, especially when tears are being shed. The sufferer should avoid rubbing the eye as it will aggravate the feelings.

e) Burning and Itching Sensations. The eye conjunctiva will feel itchy and hot accompanied by an acute burning sensation. Often bathing the eye with cool water may provide some relief.

f) Pink Eye Discharge. During the persons sleep, sticking of the eyelids commonly occurs and a crusty, yellow, green discharge will be observed, caused by the infection. The stickiness can be removed by bathing the area in water and cleaning with a soft cloth. The cloth should be disposed after use to avoid spreading the highly contagious infection to others.

g) Photophobia. Since the eye is sensitive to bright and artificial light, then due to the infection it may become ultra sensitive to light exposure, some relief may be found by using dark glasses

If any or all of the above symptoms are observed in the person, then the infection know as pink eye is present, and whilst a visit to a doctor is recommended, the sufferer should pay particular attention to his/her personal hygiene to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Tags: , , ,