Allergies vs Pink Eye: Symptoms, Causes and Preventive Measures

Pink eye and allergies share certain symptoms while having different causes, so it's simple to mistake one for the other. If you even suspect that you have pink eye and not a common seasonal allergy, you should probably skip your work or school day because this condition is contagious.

Nevertheless, go through this detailed discussion on allergies vs pink eye to learn about the symptoms and causes and to prevent them from spreading.

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What is Allergy?

When people feel discomfort in their eyes but cannot find a possible reason, it is likely to be an allergy. Allergies are usually not contagious. It is typically caused by outdoor allergens and dust particles.

What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is a condition that is commonly caused due to the presence of viruses or bacteria in the eye. It is highly contagious and spreads through contact and is very likely to spread from public spaces.

However, another type of pink eye is known to people which is not contagious. It is usually caused due to pollution, smoke, chlorinated water etc.

What are the Symptoms of Allergies and Pink Eyes?

The symptoms of allergies and pink eyes are mostly similar and can be slightly difficult to distinguish. However, with some attention to the details one can easily find and identify the problem.

Symptoms of Allergy

Eye allergies may manifest with symptoms that resemble those of an infection. Pink or red may be present in the white part of the eye or sclera. The eyes with allergic conjunctivitis frequently feel scratchy or irritated and may tear excessively clear discharge.

In addition, light sensitivity, puffy, bulging eyelids, and allergies can also cause these symptoms. Moreover, people with allergic pink eye frequently also have general allergy-like symptoms, such as runny nose, itchy throat, and sneezing.

Nevertheless, the list of symptoms includes:

Itchy eye(s)
Watery discharge
Blurred vision
Swollen, puffy eyelid(s)
Pink or red eye(s)
Scratchy throat
Runny nose
Sensitivity to light
Sneezing

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Irritation and a pink or red hue in one or both eyes are the most typical signs of contagious pink eye. Also, it may not be easy to open the eyes if there is a crust-like film covering the eyelid or eyelashes, especially after sleep. Other probable symptoms include blurred vision, a watery or thick discharge, or the impression.

Nevertheless, a list of symptoms includes:

Watery eye(s)
Pink or red eye(s)
Itchy eye(s)
Blurred vision
Discharge—usually yellow or green
Sticky sensation on the eyelid(s) or eyelashes

What Are the Causes of Allergies and Pink Eye?

Conjunctival irritation is referred to generally as "pink eye." This mucous membrane borders the interior of the eyelids and covers the front of the eye. Additionally, pink eye is also referred to as conjunctivitis in the medical community.

However, for a variety of reasons, the conjunctiva can become inflamed. Pink eye most frequently results from:

Bacteria: Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, which also cause strep throat and staph infections, most frequently cause bacterial conjunctivitis.
Virus: Adenovirus, which also causes the common cold and other respiratory illnesses, frequently causes conjunctivitis. If you come into contact with someone with a cold, you could develop viral conjunctivitis.
Irritants: Your eyes may itch or swell if a chemical or foreign object enters them unintentionally. Examples of irritants include smoke, pollution, and chlorine, a chemical frequently found in swimming pools.
Allergies: A pink eye in one or both of your eyes can be brought on by common allergens like pollen or dust. Your body produces histamines in response to allergens, and these histamines cause inflammation. As a result, allergic conjunctivitis symptoms appear. Typically, allergic pink eyes can be highly irritating.
Pollution and Smoke: Pollution plays a major role in causing discomfort to the eyes. Allergies and pink eyes are sometimes caused due to exposure to pollution. The toxic particles present in the air like nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide, often cause irritation to the eyes. In addition, smoke from cigarettes is also responsible for causing irritation to the eyes.

What Are the Differences Between Allergy Eyes and Pink Eye?

If you wish to obtain further clarity regarding this discussion on allergy vs pink eye, there are specific pointers to consider:

Parameters	Allergy	Pink Eye
Definition	Allergies typically do not produce significant symptoms and heal faster than pink eye brought on by other sources.	If left untreated, bacterial or viral pink eye can cause severe symptoms in adults and children. The cornea of the eye may become inflamed, resulting in impaired vision.
Symptoms	A burning sensation with watery eyes is one of the most prominent symptoms of an allergy. Some people might also experience a stingy feeling in their eyes.	Common viral or bacterial pink eye symptoms include a persistent sensation of having something trapped in your eye, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
Causes	Allergies can also be caused due to exposure to food items that trigger an individual.	No food items can be held responsible for causing pink eyes.

How to Prevent Allergies?

Allergies are highly contagious and spread with contact. It is suggested for a person with allergy to stay indoors until cured, as it may spread to others.

Mentioned below are a few tips that will prevent individuals from contracting an allergy:

Wear sunglasses or glasses while going out or while carrying out the process of cleaning at home. Besides, being in minimum contact with dust particles will help prevent allergies.
Wash hands within regular intervals to prevent the chances of allergens entering the eyes.
Choose the right makeup products from brands that you can rely on. Using wrong cosmetics not only affects the skin but also causes sensitivity to the eyes.

How to Prevent Pink Eye?

Both bacterial and viral pink eyes can be extremely infectious. One of the greatest methods to prevent various types of pink eye is to maintain basic hygiene.

The following tips will help you stop the spread of contagious pink eye:

Do not rub your eyes.
Wash your hands frequently.
Avoid sharing cosmetics, especially eyeliner and mascara.
Wash and replace your pillow cases regularly.
Wipe your face and eyes with fresh tissues and towels.

Individuals who use contact lenses should keep the following things in mind:

Avoid wearing contact lenses with a bad fit.
Frequently wash and change your contact lenses.
Before applying or removing contact lenses, cleanse your hands.
Never exchange contact lenses.

Also, avoiding anything you are allergic to will help you avoid getting allergic to pink eye.

FAQs About Allergies Vs Pink Eye

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Is pink eye contagious?

Yes, pink eye is highly contagious. So, it would be best if you took proper preventive measures to stop it from spreading.

Can pink eye be painful?

Yes. Pink eyes can be painful and itchy as well.

How long does it take for a pink eye to heal?

It takes around 7 days to 14 days for a pink eye to heal without medical attention.