What is pinkeye? Pinkeye is redness and swelling of the lining
of the eyelid and eye surface. The lining is called the
conjunctiva (say "kawn-junk-TY-vuh"), and pinkeye is also called
conjunctivitis (say "kun-JUNK-tih-VY-tus"). The lining of the
eye is normally clear and colorless. Pinkeye is common. It
usually spreads easily, especially among children in day care
centers and schools. Because pinkeye is often spread from eye to
hand to eye, good hand-washing is important. Sharing a
washcloth, towel, or other item with a person who has pinkeye
can spread the infection. What causes pinkeye? Pinkeye is most
often caused by a virus. It usually occurs at the same time as
or right after you have had a cold. Less commonly, pinkeye can
be caused by infection with bacteria. Dry air, allergies, smoke,
and chemicals can also cause pinkeye. What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of pinkeye include: You may have symptoms in one eye,
both eyes, or the symptoms may spread from one eye to the other
eye. When pinkeye is caused by a