Pinkeye

Pink eye is a condition that is usually associated with the highly contagious infection known as conjunctivitis. It is caused by a virus or bacteria, though non-contagious causes of pink eye may also be tied to allergies, dry eyes, chemical exposures or a foreign object in the eye. Pink eye is named such because the infection is characterized by redness of the eye. Other symptoms may include itching or burning, swelling of the eyelids, watery eyes and pus-like discharge in the corner of the eye. Treatment depends on the type of infection present and may include antibiotic drops or other symptom-relieving medications. If left untreated, pink eye can lead to permanent eye problems, possibly including blindness. As such, this condition should always be assessed by a physician or ophthalmologist.