Pinkeye (also called conjunctivitis) is redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and eye surface. The lining of the eye is usually clear. If irritation or infection occurs, the lining becomes red and swollen. See pictures of a normal eye camera and an eye with conjunctivitis camera.
Pinkeye is very common. It usually is not serious and goes away in 7 to 10 days without medical treatment.
Common symptoms of pinkeye are:
Eye redness (hyperemia).
Swollen, red eyelids.
More tearing than usual.
Feeling as if something is in the eye (foreign-body sensation or keratoconjunctivitis).
An itching or burning feeling.
Mild sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Drainage from the eye.
Most cases of pinkeye are caused by:
Infections caused by viruses or bacteria.
Dry eyes from lack of tears or exposure to wind and sun.
Chemicals, fumes, or smoke (chemical conjunctivitis).
Allergies.
Source:http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/tc/pinkeye-topic-overview
