When someone is told they have pink eyes or wake up with the characteristic reddened eyes, they may ask, “What is pink eye?” The term pink eye is commonly used, but many people do not know what causes pink eye or whether or not it is contagious. Here are some basic facts about pink eye.

So, what is pink eye? The medical term for pink eye is conjunctivitis. Pink eye, or pinkeye, is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye. The conjunctiva is the lining of the underside of the eyelid and the outer membrane of the eye itself. When the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, it changes from the clear normal state to become reddened or pink.

The cause of pink eye is what caused the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Viral infection, bacterial infection, allergies, or chemical exposure to substances such as smoke or fumes can cause pink eye. Pink eye that is caused by viral or bacterial infections is contagious and special care should be taken not to spread the infection to others.

Besides pinkness of the eyes, other symptoms include feeling as if something is in the eye, itching, burning, teary eyes, reddened or swollen eyelids, and mild sensitivity to light. Many cases of pink eye cause discharge from the eyes that may crust on the eyelashes, especially during sleep. People with pink eye may have crustiness on the eyelids and eyelashes that makes their eyes almost pasted shut. The best way to remove the crustiness without damaging the eyes or eyelashes is with a warm, wet cloth.

Most cases of pink eye go away without medical treatment in seven to ten days. If the effected individual wears contact lenses, the person should refrain from using them until a few days after the pink eye is gone. New contact lenses should be used. If the same contact lenses are used after pinkeye that were used at the onset of the condition, the person risks the infection recurring. Pink eye should not affect the person’s vision. If vision is affected, they should contact their doctor immediately.

If the person must return to work or school, they may get medication from the doctor to stop pink eye caused by a bacterial infection from being contagious. If the cause was viral, there is no medication to treat a common viral pink eye. However, the person should be able to return to work or school in five to seven days. If the pink eye was caused by exposure to chemicals or allergies, the pink eye is not contagious.