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What Causes Pink Eyes?

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Posted on Sat, 18 Feb 2017
Question: My left eye has been itching and watering all day (nose running too). My eye is now red and somewhat swollen. I'm wondering if I have pink eye?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (54 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
conjunctivitis can be allergic or due to infection

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

It is definitely possible though allergies are also option as well.

Pink eye refers usually to conjunctivitis which is inflammation of an area of the eye called the conjunctiva.

It is most commonly due to infection (viral or bacterial) or allergies. In both cases, swelling would occur as part of the body's inflammatory response.
If there is no discharge, an infection is less likely and it is probably an allergy.

You can try an oral anti histamine to see if this helps or if you have an allergy eye drop that has been recommended by your doctor, you can use this instead eg pataday

Oral antihistamines are over the counter eg benadryl, zyrtec, claritine.

If there is no improvement or worsening or there is a change in your vision, then you should be seen by your doctor as soon as possible.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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What Causes Pink Eyes?

Brief Answer: conjunctivitis can be allergic or due to infection Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic It is definitely possible though allergies are also option as well. Pink eye refers usually to conjunctivitis which is inflammation of an area of the eye called the conjunctiva. It is most commonly due to infection (viral or bacterial) or allergies. In both cases, swelling would occur as part of the body's inflammatory response. If there is no discharge, an infection is less likely and it is probably an allergy. You can try an oral anti histamine to see if this helps or if you have an allergy eye drop that has been recommended by your doctor, you can use this instead eg pataday Oral antihistamines are over the counter eg benadryl, zyrtec, claritine. If there is no improvement or worsening or there is a change in your vision, then you should be seen by your doctor as soon as possible. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions