Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the tissues lining the eyelid (conjunctiva) and can be caused by various factors, including allergens, irritants, bacteria, and viruses
. The most common causes of pink eye are:
- Viral infections : The most common type of pink eye is caused by a virus, such as adenoviruses, herpes simplex virus, or varicella-zoster virus
- Bacterial infections : Bacterial conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, or Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Allergies : Pink eye can also be caused by allergies to pollen, pet fur, or other allergens
- Chemicals : Exposure to chemicals in the eye can lead to pink eye
- Contact lens wear : Improper contact lens hygiene or wearing contact lenses that aren't cleaned properly can cause bacterial conjunctivitis
- Foreign bodies : A foreign body in the eye, such as a loose eyelash, can cause inflammation
- Air pollution : Indoor and outdoor air pollution, such as smoke, dust, fumes, or chemical vapors, can contribute to pink eye
- Fungi : Although less common, fungal infections can cause pink eye
In newborn babies, pink eye can be caused by an incompletely opened tear duct or a sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia
. Treatment for pink eye depends on the specific cause and may include eye drops, ointments, pills, water flushes, and comfort care
