Pink Eye / Red Eye
Pink Eye / Red Eye is one of the most common eye problems. It may result from simple causes such as allergies, or from conditions requiring medical intervention such as bacterial or viral infections. Eye redness occurs due to inflammation of the blood vessels on the eye’s surface and may be accompanied by bothersome symptoms that affect comfort and vision quality.
What is Pink Eye / Red Eye?
Pink Eye / Red Eye is a condition in which the blood vessels in the conjunctiva (the transparent layer covering the white of the eye) become dilated, causing redness. The causes range from simple temporary cases to conditions that require medical diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Red Eye
There are many causes that lead to eye redness, the most prominent being:
- Conjunctivitis (bacterial or viral)
- Ocular allergy
- Dry eye
- Eye strain from screens
- Foreign body in the eye
- Infections or injuries to the eye
Types of Conjunctivitis
1. Viral Conjunctivitis The most common type, often accompanied by cold symptoms, and highly contagious.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis Causes sticky discharge and may lead to eyelids sticking together. It requires antibiotic treatment.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis Occurs due to exposure to allergens such as dust or pollen and is accompanied by severe itching.
Symptoms of Red Eye
- Clear redness in the eye
- Itching or burning
- Excessive tearing
- Discharge from the eye
- Temporary blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
When Should You Visit the Doctor?
It is recommended to see an ophthalmologist in the following cases:
- Redness persisting for more than two days
- Severe eye pain
- Decreased vision
- Thick or abnormal discharge
- Severe sensitivity to light
How is it Diagnosed?
At Dr. Yazan Salama’s clinic, the cause of eye redness is accurately determined through:
- Slit-lamp examination of the eye
- Evaluation of symptoms and medical history
- Examination of the ocular surface and cornea
Treatment of Red Eye
Treatment depends on the main cause of the condition and includes:
1. Medication Therapy Such as eye drops for bacteria, viruses, or allergies according to the diagnosis.
2. Artificial Tears Used to relieve irritation and lubricate the eye.
3. Avoiding Irritants Such as dust, smoke, or wearing contact lenses during the infection.
Is Red Eye Contagious?
Some types of conjunctivitis, especially viral and bacterial, are contagious and can spread easily from person to person. Therefore, it is advised to follow hygiene rules such as washing hands and not sharing personal items.
Prevention Tips
- Wash hands regularly
- Avoid touching the eyes
- Do not share towels or cosmetics
- Clean contact lenses properly
- Reduce exposure to allergens
Why Choose Dr. Yazan Salama?
Dr. Yazan Salama provides accurate and rapid diagnosis of the causes of red eye, along with a personalized treatment plan for each case to ensure quick recovery and prevent recurrence of the problem.
- Accurate diagnosis using the latest devices
- Targeted treatment according to the cause
- Follow-up for recurrent or chronic cases
- Expertise in various diseases of the ocular surface