Consistent eye problems?

Question

For some reason, I am EXTREMELY susceptible to pink eye and other eye problems. I wear contacts, but I'm very hygienic and always wash my hands before and after removing and inserting them. However, for the third time in three years, I think I may have pink eye again - but this time, I don't have a comprehensive insurance plan because I just graduated from college. My eye isn't itchy or red/pink yet, but there's some drainage, and it began this morning when I woke up. Can anyone tell me what they think this might be, and WHY I keep having these eye related ailments?

P.S. I have no children, I'm 23 years old, and I don't hang around children (EVER) - so this is not a reason for my susceptibility.

Answer 1

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common and treatable eye conditions in children and adults. Often called "pink eye," it is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and helps keep the eyelid and eyeball moist.

Viruses, bacteria, irritating substances (shampoo, dirt, smoke, pool chlorine), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or allergens (substances that cause allergies) can all cause conjunctivitis. Pink eye caused by bacteria, viruses or STDs can spread easily from person to person but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly; allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

it is important to find out whether your pink eye is caused by allergies or infection because each condition has different treatments. This article focuses on allergic conjunctivitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include:

Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid

Increased amount of tears

Itchy eyes

Blurred vision

Swelling of the eyelid

See your ophthalmologist (a doctor and surgeon who is trained to treat eye conditions) optometrist (doctor trained to treat eye conditions) or family doctor if you have any of these persistent symptoms.