Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye infection, is a very common inflammation or infection in one or both eyes. It’s usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Conjunctivitis occurs when a tear duct that has not fully opened develops tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva (a clear and thin membrane that covers the sclera and the inner surface of the eyelids) and gets inflamed while becoming more visible.
This causes the whites of the eyes to appear pink or reddish. It’s rarely serious or major enough to affect vision. However, it can be highly contagious and can irritate the eyes. This blog discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatment options of seasonal pink eye disease.
Seasonal conjunctivitis is the most common type of ocular allergy. It is related to certain pollens that release spores during specific seasons, such as grass pollen in May and June or ragweed pollen in August and September. Allergens like pollen and pet dander can also cause conjunctivitis in the spring season.
The seasonal conjunctivitis types include:
A sudden-onset reaction occurs when a person encounters an allergen, e.g., cat dander in sensitive people. It is a short-term condition and is usually common during allergy season.
Also known as perennial allergic conjunctivitis, it’s a highly common form of allergy. It’s often caused by indoor allergens and persists throughout the year.
Pink eye symptoms include:
Different types of conjunctivitis can cause different symptoms, and some of these types may also have more severe symptoms as compared to other types.
When the body tries to defend itself against a perceived threat, you experience allergic conjunctivitis. It does so in reaction to things that cause the release of histamine. This potent chemical is produced by the body to fight off foreign invaders. Some substances that cause such a reaction include:
Sometimes, people may experience pink eye infection or allergic conjunctivitis due to specific substances or medications that are dropped into the eyes, such as contact lens solution or medicated eye drops.
Some types of conjunctivitis, if not treated in time, can get very serious. If you have conjunctivitis along with any of the following symptoms, get medical help:
Remember that pink eye symptoms can be very similar to other eye infections and can be extremely contagious. You should consult with a healthcare provider or an eye doctor if you or anyone else in your family develop pink eye symptoms that are persistent and not improving.
If you or someone in your family is suffering from seasonal conjunctivitis, visit 8-2-8 Urgent Care walk-in clinic in Oceanside, CA. Our experienced medical team can develop a treatment plan to ensure quick and maximum relief of your eye condition. Contact our medical team now. We are open 8 am to 8 pm every day of the year. Our team will walk you through our convenient self-check-in process.
