Pinkeye |
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DESCRIPTION
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Pinkeye, known medically as conjunctivitis (cun-JUNK-tuh-VI-tis), is an irritation of the inner eyelid and the surface of the white part of the eye. If caused by an infection, the disease spreads easily from person to person. With care, the problem should clear up in 7 days.
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CAUSES
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Infections and allergies are the most common causes. Air pollution, smoke, dust, and pollen may also be at fault.
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SYMPTOMS
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Typically, you'll have painful red eyes, puffy eyelids, or a gritty feeling in the eyes. You may have clear, yellow, or green-colored eye discharge that may form crusts and cause the eyelids to stick together, especially in the morning.
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CARE
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Your doctor will order tests to find the cause. If a bacterial infection is the culprit, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic medication.
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