What is Pink Eye?

Conjunctivitis is an infection of the eyes commonly known as “pink eye.” It is most often caused by a virus but can also be caused by bacteria. Symptoms include redness, irritation, and itchiness. Clear or yellow discharge may make the eyelids stick together, especially in the morning. The eyelids may also swell.

People can get conjunctivitis by coming into contact with the tears or discharge from the eyes of an infected person and then touching their own eyes. Preschoolers and school-age children get it most often because of crowding and lack of hand washing.

Doctors may give an eye medication depending on the cause of the infection. Keeping the eyelid clean and lubricating the eye with drops may decrease discomfort until the infection is gone.

Source:  Maryland Department of Health