What Causes Pink Eye?
Pink Eye (Acute Bacterial Conjunctivitis)
Clinically known as acute bacterial conjunctivitis, pink eye arises from a diverse range of causes, primarily encompassing infection, allergy, trauma, and other factors. This condition is contagious, necessitating prompt treatment and attention to personal hygiene.
I. Infectious Factors:
One of the primary causes of pink eye is infection. Common infectious agents include bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, fungi, and parasites. These pathogens can spread through contact or airborne droplets, leading to conjunctival infection. Treatment involves local medication prescribed by a physician, such as tobramycin eye drops or levofloxacin hydrochloride eye drops, which have anti-infective properties to gradually resolve inflammation. For severe cases, oral antibiotics like azithromycin capsules or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules may be necessary.
II. Allergic Factors:
Allergies to certain substances, like atropine and cosmetics, can also trigger pink eye. For allergy-induced pink eye, avoid further exposure to the allergen and administer anti-allergy medications like antihistamines under medical guidance.
III. Traumatic Factors:
Eye injuries, such as impacts or scratches, can damage the conjunctiva and lead to pink eye. For trauma-induced cases, prioritize wound care to prevent infection. Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed to promote conjunctival healing.
IV. Endogenous Pathogen Infection:
Endogenous pathogens can infect the conjunctiva through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, or trigger allergic reactions to infections elsewhere in the body, potentially causing pink eye. Treatment is similar to that for infectious pink eye, involving local and oral medications.
V. Compressive Factors:
Increased intraocular or orbital pressure can impede blood circulation, causing localized congestion and potentially leading to pink eye. For compressive pink eye, address the underlying pressure, such as reducing intraocular pressure or treating orbital space-occupying lesions. Circulatory enhancers may also be prescribed.
The choice of treatment should be tailored to the specific cause. During treatment, maintain personal hygiene and avoid close contact with others to prevent transmission. If symptoms persist or worsen, promptly seek medical attention.
