An In-Depth Look at Viral Pink Eye: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Conjunctivitis, or Pink Eye, is a highly contagious eye condition.
If you have been experiencing redness and watering in your eyes, it might be a sign of Pink Eye.
The most common type of Conjunctivitis is Viral Conjunctivitis which accounts for 75% of cases of Pink Eye.
This makes it extremely essential to understand this condition, and this is exactly what we will do in this article.
Moving ahead, we shall explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Viral Pink Eye.
We shall also discuss preventive measures to learn ways of limiting the spread of the virus.
Symptoms
Viral Pink Eye describes the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye.
It generally starts in one eye and spreads to the other one.
Following are some commonly observed symptoms of Viral Pink Eye.
- Redness
- Excessive tearing
- Itching, burning, or stinging sensation in the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Swollen eyelids
- Crusty eyelashes on waking up
- Blurred vision
- A gritty sensation in the eye
The viruses which cause Pink Eye are also responsible for other conditions, such as the common cold, measles, respiratory infection, etc.
Therefore, the symptoms of these conditions might also accompany the symptoms of Viral Pink Eye.
Viral Pink Eye is contagious from the time symptoms appear until the infection resolves, which is usually 7 to 14 days.
Viral Pink Eye causes
As suggested by its name, Viral Pink Eye is caused by viruses, the most common of which is the Adenovirus.
It contributes to 65 to 90 percent of all Viral Pink Eye cases.
Other viruses responsible for Viral Conjunctivitis include:
- Rubella virus
- Rubeola (measles) virus
- Herpesviruses
- Picornaviruses
How does it spread
The viruses which cause Pink Eye can be transmitted through direct contact with the eye secretions of an infected person.
This can occur through activities like shaking hands, sharing towels or pillows, or touching objects that may have come into contact with the infected person’s eye, like sunglasses or makeup.
Indirect contact can also play a role in transmission.
When an infected person touches their eyes and then touches a surface or object, the virus can remain on the surface.
This virus can then be transmitted to someone else who touches the same surface and then touches their own eyes.
Viral Conjunctivitis can also be associated with upper respiratory tract infections, such as the flu or common cold.
Hence, the virus can be spread through close contact or inhalation of the respiratory droplets of an infected person.
Pink Eye in babies
Pink Eye can also be seen in newborn babies.
About 1-2 percent of newborns suffer from Neonatal Conjunctivitis.
Virus that causes oral or genital Herpes can cause Conjunctivitis in babies.
These viruses are usually transmitted to the baby during childbirth and can be seen as red, swollen eyelids with pus.
Doctors usually suggest using a warm compress to provide relief to the swelling and irritation.
Treatments
Viral Conjunctivitis is a self-limiting condition, which means that it resolves itself without any treatment.
But medications and home remedies might be suggested to reduce the duration of the illness and provide symptomatic relief.
Some such Viral Pink Eye treatments have been discussed here.
Medications
Your doctor might suggest you the following medications to provide relief.
Povidone-iodine
Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic that has been used off-label for treating AdenoViral Conjunctivitis.
Administration of diluted Povidone-iodine has been reported to help reduce the contagiousness of the virus.
Antiviral agents
Doctors might prescribe antiviral medications for treating more serious types of Viral Conjunctivitis, like the Herpes Simplex Virus.
Some such medications include Aciclovir, Trifluridine, and Valaciclovir.
The use of Cidofovir has been seen to be successful in treating Adenoviral Pink Eye but with some level of toxicity.
NSAIDs
Your doctor might prescribe a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) to help reduce the pain, inflammation, redness, and itching.
These might be in the form of eye drops or tablets.
Corticosteroids
Topical Corticosteroids have proven to be useful in treating inflammation of the eye.
However, due to the risks associated with steroid use, the majority of treatment guidelines suggest using steroids in cases of severe Conjunctivitis only.
These risks include the potential to worsen or prolong the infection and increase intraocular pressure, Glaucoma, and Cataracts.
Home remedies
While it is important to seek medical advice for Pink Eye caused by the virus, there are some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms.
Cold compresses
Using cold compresses do not treat Pink Eye but is believed to reduce the discomfort associated with Viral Pink Eye.
You can buy a cold compress or make one yourself by freezing a clean, damp washcloth.
Also Read: Want to know more about these home remedies? Read “Viral Pink Eye Remedy: Relief Without Medication” to learn about them.
Artificial tears
One of the recommended treatments for Viral Pink Eye is the use of artificial tears.
They lubricate the eyes and help relieve the pain, redness, itching, and burning sensation.
Eyemist Eye Drops can be bought over the counter to alleviate these symptoms.
Preventing further spread
If you have Viral Pink Eye, it is extremely important to ensure you do your best to avoid spreading it.
Good hygiene practices and other tips that might be helpful in doing so are discussed below:
- Most viruses transmit through contact. Wash your hands with soap and water
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Viral Conjunctivitis also spreads through respiratory droplets, so cover your nose and mouth if you have the infection
- Avoid wearing contact lenses if you have Pink Eye symptoms
- Do not share pillows, towels, or other personal belongings with anyone
- Avoid being in crowded places
- Keep away from using makeup on or around the eyes
Avoiding coming in contact with someone who has Pink Eye and not using their belongings can also help you prevent contracting it.
When to see a doctor
While most cases of Viral Pink Eye are self-limiting and go away in about two weeks, some cases might require medical attention.
You must consult a healthcare professional if case you have the following:
- Extreme eye pain
- Blurry vision
- Excessive watering or discharge
- Intense sensitivity to light
- A compromised immune system
Conclusion
In conclusion, Viral Pink Eye, also known as Viral Conjunctivitis, is a common and highly contagious eye condition.
It can be seen in newborn babies as well.
Symptoms include redness, pain, tears, and discharge from the eyes.
Although Viral Pink Eye can be uncomfortable and disturbing, it usually resolves on its own within one to two weeks without any long-term problems.
Treatment usually focuses on relieving the symptoms and preventing the spread of the infection.
Apart from medications, good hygiene practices such as washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the eyes, and disinfecting areas can help prevent the spread of the virus.
Consult a doctor for better diagnosis and treatment in case of severe or persistent symptoms.
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