What is pink eye?

Pink eye
The eyes can contract infections from bacteria, fungi or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye, can affect just one eye or both eyes.  Besides infection, other kinds of inflammation may cause similar pathological changes in eyes. One common eye infection or inflammation that we'll take a look at is called conjunctivitis.

What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis, also known as "pink eye," is a common eye disease and may affect one or, more frequently, both eyes. While conjunctivitis is usually a minor eye infection, sometimes it can develop into a more serious problem. 

How long is pink eye contagious?
Bacterial conjunctivitis is contagious as soon as symptoms appear and remains contagious as long as there is a discharge from the eye — or until 24 hours after topical antibiotics are started. Viral conjunctivitis is generally contagious before symptoms appear and can remain so as long as the symptoms last. Allergic and irritant conjunctivitis are not contagious.  For more on what causes pink eye, continue reading.