Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is primarily caused by a viral or bacterial infection, or sometimes by allergies or irritants. Let's break down each of these causes.
Viral Conjunctivitis
- The most common culprit: Viruses are the most frequent cause of pink eye.
- Highly contagious: Viral pink eye spreads easily through direct or indirect contact.
- Associated symptoms: Often accompanies cold or flu symptoms.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
- Bacterial infection: Different types of bacteria can lead to pink eye.
- Contagious: Similar to viral conjunctivitis, it's highly contagious.
- Characteristic sign: Often associated with pus or thick discharge from the eye.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Allergic reaction: This type is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
- Not contagious: Unlike viral or bacterial pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis cannot spread from person to person.
- Common symptoms: Usually affects both eyes and is accompanied by itching.
Irritant Conjunctivitis
- Irritation from external sources: This type is caused by irritants like smoke, chemicals, or foreign objects in the eye.
- Not contagious: Similar to allergic conjunctivitis, it's not infectious.
In summary, pink eye results from infection, allergies, or irritation affecting the conjunctiva (the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye). The specific "making" of pink eye depends on the underlying cause – viral or bacterial infection, allergic reaction, or irritation.
