Weepy Eye in Humans
Weepy eye is a condition in animals like rabbits in which their eyes appear inflamed and show excessive tearing. In humans, weepy eye is known as conjunctivitis or pinkeye. It is a common condition that affects many people, especially children. Although it is easily treated, the course of treatment depends on the cause of the infection.
Other People Are Reading
-
The Eye
-
Your eye is an intricate organ that functions by focusing the right amount of light onto the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eyes. This tissue is called the retina, and the photoreceptor cells in it create electrical impulses when they are hit with light. These impulses are then sent along the optical nerves to the brain for interpretation. The brain then puts together an image based on these impulses.
Conjunctivitis
-
The eye is covered by a thin, clear tissue called conjunctiva. When that tissue becomes inflamed and infected, you experience conjunctivitis (also called weepy eye or pinkeye). Many things can cause conjunctivitis: a virus or bacteria that have colonized in the conjunctiva, an irritant like dirt, smoke or soap in the tissue or allergies to dust or pollen.
-
Symptoms
-
Conjunctivitis is characterized by redness in the white part of the eye or on the insides of your eyelids. You will also notice that you are tearing up much more than usual. You eyes may also start to itch or burn. Many sufferers also have a hard time seeing because of blurry vision and an increased sensitivity to light. In some cases, you may notice that a thick yellow, green or white discharge leaks from the eyes and crusts over your eyelashes when you sleep. If you experience these symptoms, you should see your health-care provider for a professional diagnosis.
Treatment
-
Your health-care provider will do an exam of your eyes to diagnose conjunctivitis. He may also take a sample of fluid from your eyes to have it analyzed for the source of the infection. This is especially true if you frequently experience this type of infection. If your infection had been caused by bacteria, he will probably prescribe antibiotics. If it is a virus, there is no cure, and your health-care provider may give you medication to manage symptoms while the virus runs its course. If some sort of irritant is causing the infection, he may flush out your eyes with water and wait for the symptoms to clear up. This usually takes less than four hours. Allergy-caused conjunctivitis is treated by tackling the allergy with medication or removing the source of the allergen.
Prevention
-
Prevent conjunctivitis by protecting your eyes. Wear protective goggles when working in environment where there are airborne irritants. Stay away from people who already have pinkeye because if it is caused by bacteria or a virus, it can be contagious. If you are already sick with a viral or bacterial infection, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes. If you have allergies, stay away from your triggers, and if that is not possible, seek medical treatment to manage it.
-
