Six Misconceptions About Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers parts of the inside of the eyelid and the eyes. Because of the redness and bloodshot eyes, conjunctivitis is often referred to as pink eye.

According to research published in JAMA, about 6 million people in the United States develop pink eye each year. Although pink eye itself is not usually harmful to vision, it can be painful and bothersome.
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Pink eye has many common symptoms. One or both eyes may become affected. Common symptoms include the following:

• Redness in the white of the eye
• Dry eyes
• Itchy or burning eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Eye discomfort
• A gritty sensation in the eyes
• Discharge from the eyes that may appear thicker than normal tears
• Swollen eyelids

There are many misconceptions or myths about pink eye. Understanding more about the condition, including its causes and treatments, can help prevent it and promote recovery. The article below covers six common misconceptions about pink eye.
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Misconception: Pink eye mainly affects children. 

Pink eye can affect anyone of any age. However, children may engage in behaviors that put them at a higher risk of contracting conjunctivitis. For example, they may not wash their hands as frequently and rub their eyes. In reality, adults also develop pink eye for a variety of reasons, including infections and allergic reactions.

Misconception: Pink eye is always contagious. 

Pink eye can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. However, it often occurs due to an allergic reaction. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 15 to 40% of people develop pink eye due to allergies.

Misconception: Most cases of pink eye occur during the winter months.

It is true that infectious forms of pink eye due to a virus occur more commonly during the cold and flu season, which is typically during the winter months. However, allergic conjunctivitis is more common in the spring and summer months.
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Misconception: Pink eye usually goes away in a few days.

Pink eye can be short-term, meaning it lasts under 4 weeks. For example, symptoms of viral pink eye typically resolve in about two weeks. However, there are instances where pink eye can last long-term and become chronic. 

Misconception: Pink eye does not require treatment. 

In instances of mild pink eye, you may not require any special treatment.  Usually, in mild cases, home treatment can decrease symptoms. However, bacterial conjunctivitis may require treatment, such as prescription antibiotic eye drops. You should consider a doctor's visit if you experience any of the following:

• Eye pain 
• Symptoms that worsen 
• Any type of visual impairment 
  
• Recurrent symptoms 

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Misconception: Pink eye never causes any complications.

Most cases of pink eye are mild, and complications are uncommon. For example, in cases of viral conjunctivitis, your immune system typically handles the infection and clears up symptoms. However, when someone has a compromised immune system or in instances of severe conjunctivitis, complications can occur and may include corneal ulcers and corneal inflammation.

Preventing Pink Eye 

You may be able to reduce your risk of developing certain forms of pink eye. Consider the following suggestions for prevention:

• Wash your hands frequently using soap and water even if they do not feel dirty.
• Try to avoid vigorously rubbing your eyes. 
• Practice proper hygiene when handling contact lenses.
• When using eye drops, be sure not to touch the tip of the bottle to your eye.
• Do not share items that touch your eye, such as eye makeup or eyeglasses.

We hope the above information was helpful in addressing misconceptions regarding pink eye. If you have any questions about pink eye including treatment and prevention, we are happy to help. If you would like an appointment with one of our eye doctors, call our office at 508-746-8600.