The colloquial term “cold in the eye” describes a common and contagious infection that affects the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelid. This condition is medically known as viral conjunctivitis, a form of “pink eye.” It is often associated with the same viruses that cause the common cold, leading to its familiar name. This infection is characterized by inflammation and redness until the immune system clears the virus.
Identifying Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is the most frequent type of infectious pink eye, affecting millions annually. The main cause is the adenovirus, a group of viruses also responsible for many upper respiratory tract infections and sore throats. This viral infection targets the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue layer protecting the eye.
It is important to distinguish this viral form from other types of conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically produces a thick, pus-like discharge that is yellow or green, often causing the eyelids to be “glued” shut upon waking. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and is characterized by intense itching in both eyes, often accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose. Viral conjunctivitis, in contrast, results in a thin, clear, and watery discharge.
Recognizing the Signs
Viral conjunctivitis usually begins with irritation in one eye, which often spreads to the other eye within a few days. The white of the eye appears pink or reddish due to the inflammation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva. This redness is frequently accompanied by excessive tearing.
A common sensory experience is a gritty or foreign body sensation, making it feel as though sand or an eyelash is caught in the eye. The eyelids may become puffy or swollen, and a mild sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, can occur. While the discharge is primarily watery, a small amount of stickiness may be present in the morning, making the eyelids slightly difficult to open.
Understanding Transmission
The viral form of conjunctivitis is contagious and spreads easily through contact. The virus is present in the eye discharge and respiratory secretions of an infected person. Transmission occurs when a person touches an infected surface, such as a doorknob or towel, and then touches their own eye.
The virus can also spread through close personal contact, like shaking hands, or via respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze. The incubation period is typically short, meaning symptoms can appear quickly after exposure. The virus often accompanies a common cold because it can spread from the respiratory system to the eyes via mucous membranes.
Managing the Infection
The treatment for viral conjunctivitis is primarily supportive, as there is no specific antiviral medication for the most common causes. Like the common cold, the infection is self-limiting, and the immune system clears the virus, a process that typically takes about one to two weeks. Since the cause is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective and should not be used.
Symptom relief focuses on comfort measures to reduce inflammation and dryness. Applying a clean, cold compress to the closed eyelids several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter artificial tears, or lubricating eye drops, are used to soothe the feeling of dryness and help wash away the clear discharge. Individuals who wear contact lenses must stop using them immediately and should discard the lenses and solution used during the infection.
Strict personal hygiene is one of the most effective methods for managing the infection and preventing its spread. Frequent and thorough handwashing is necessary, especially after touching the eyes or face. Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup to prevent the virus from spreading to family members or to the uninfected eye. If symptoms include severe pain, vision changes, or intense light sensitivity, or if the condition does not begin to improve after seven days, consult a healthcare professional immediately.