Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, typically makes the white part of the eye (sclera) appear pink or red due to inflammation and visible blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the eye and inner eyelids
. Common visual signs of pink eye include:
- Pink or red coloration in one or both eyes from swollen blood vessels
- Swelling of the eyelids or conjunctiva, sometimes causing puffiness or droopiness
- Discharge that can be watery, mucus-like, or thick pus; this discharge may crust over the eyelashes, especially after sleeping, potentially causing the eyelids to stick together
- Increased tearing or watery eyes
- Crusting around the eyelids or lashes, noticeable in the morning
Other symptoms that affect appearance and sensation:
- Itching, irritation, or a burning feeling in the eyes
- A gritty sensation as if something is in the eye
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and blurred vision may occur in more severe cases
The exact appearance can vary depending on the cause:
- Viral pink eye often causes watery discharge and may start in one eye before spreading to the other
- Bacterial pink eye usually produces thicker, pus-like discharge that can cause eyelids to stick together
- Allergic conjunctivitis often affects both eyes with redness, swelling, intense itching, and watery discharge, often accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing
- Irritant-induced pink eye may cause watery eyes and mucus discharge without infection
In summary, pink eye looks like redness and swelling of the white of the eye and eyelids, often with discharge and crusting, giving the eyes a pink or reddish, irritated appearance
