Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition. While generally mild and often resolving without extensive treatment, it rarely leads to blindness, though serious outcomes affecting vision can occur in specific circumstances.
Understanding Pink Eye
Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. When small blood vessels in this membrane become swollen, they become more visible, causing the eye to appear reddish or pink. This condition can affect one or both eyes.
Pink eye commonly stems from viral, bacterial, or allergic origins. Viral conjunctivitis, often associated with the common cold, typically causes watery discharge, burning, and red eyes. Bacterial conjunctivitis may present with a thick, yellow, green, or white discharge that can crust eyelashes, especially overnight. Allergic conjunctivitis, triggered by allergens like pollen or pet dander, often results in intense itching, tearing, and puffy eyelids.
When Vision Is Affected
Most cases of pink eye, whether viral, bacterial, or allergic, do not result in permanent vision loss. The blurry vision or light sensitivity sometimes experienced with pink eye usually resolves as the infection clears. However, rare situations exist where pink eye can lead to vision impairment or loss.
Severe or untreated bacterial infections can spread to the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, causing keratitis. This inflammation of the cornea can lead to scarring and permanent vision damage if not treated promptly. Certain bacterial conjunctivitis types, like gonococcal or chlamydial, are more aggressive. These infections, especially gonococcal, can rapidly lead to corneal ulceration, perforation, and blindness if not addressed immediately. This risk is particularly high in newborns who acquire the infection during birth.
Some serious eye conditions can mimic pink eye symptoms, including redness and discomfort, but pose a greater threat to vision. These include uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye), acute glaucoma (sudden increase in eye pressure), and corneal ulcers (open sores on the cornea). These can also present with similar redness and pain but carry a high risk of vision loss. Differentiating them from typical pink eye is important for appropriate and timely treatment.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of pink eye resolve on their own, it is prudent to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Immediate consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for any changes in vision, such as blurriness or decreased sight, or increased sensitivity to light. Severe eye pain or intense redness that does not improve also warrants prompt medical evaluation.
Seek professional care if:
Thick, pus-like discharge from the eye is present.
Symptoms do not improve after a few days.
You have a compromised immune system (e.g., due to HIV or cancer treatment).
A newborn exhibits pink eye symptoms like unusual discharge or puffy eyelids, as this requires immediate medical attention due to higher complication risk.