Common Symptoms of Pink Eye
When someone has pink eye, they often experience various common symptoms. One of the most noticeable symptoms is the feeling of something being stuck in the eye. Along with this sensation, there is usually an uncomfortable itchiness and burning feeling. These symptoms are accompanied by redness in the eye. Additionally, pink eye can cause the eyelids to become puffy and the eyes to water excessively.
Some individuals with pink eye may also notice that their vision becomes hazy or blurry. Furthermore, they may become more sensitive to light than usual. Another symptom is the production of extra tears, which can result in tears streaming down the face. In some cases, there may be a discharge of mucus from the eye, which can lead to crusting around the eyelashes.
It is important to note that most people with pink eye experience an uncomfortable urge to touch their eye and alleviate the irritation. However, this can actually worsen the infection and increase the risk of spreading it to others.
Risk Factors for Pink Eye
Wearing contact lenses, especially extended-wear ones, increases the risk of developing pink eye. If an individual contracts the infection, it is essential to discontinue wearing contact lenses until the condition resolves. To minimize the chances of reinfection, healthcare professionals advise disposing of the disposable contact lenses used during the infection. Additional risk factors for pink eye include exposure to allergens and close contact with individuals who currently have bacterial or viral conjunctivitis.