Were you having a sinus infection, and now you are also having pink? Are you here to know if a sinus infection can cause pink eyes or not? Well, let me clear your doubts with this detailed guide.
Yes, a sinus infection can cause pink eyes, but there could be several other reasons for this infection as well. This article will share all those other reasons and how this infection can lead to connections as well. Moreover, you will also learn about the potential treatment options for this condition.
This comprehensive blog will clear up all your doubts about the sinus infection and its relation to pink eye. Let’s start with a short introduction to the sinus infection.
What Is A Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is inflammation of the tissue in the sinus cavities. It is usually caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Its common symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, thick nasal discharge, cough, headache, and fatigue.
The treatment option varies based on the cause and its severity. These may vary, starting from rest and over-the-counter medications to the use of antibiotics and other interventions. That was a short introduction to it. Now let’s take a detailed look to understand how it can cause pink eyes.
How Can A Sinus Infection Cause Pink Eyes?
A sinus infection usually causes pink eye due to “ocular sinusitis” or “rhinosinusitis associated conjunctivitis.” It usually happens when the sinuses become infected and inflamed. These effects spread to the membranes around your eyes and can cause pink eyes. Let’s understand it through these causes:
- Nasolacrimal Duct Connection: The sinuses and eyes are connected with the nasolacrimal duct. This drains tears from the eyes into the nasal cavity. When the sinuses are inflamed, this passage can be stopped. It can cause a backup of fluid and spread the infection to the eyes.
- Spread of Infection: The Worsening of the Sinus Infections may spread beyond the sinus area. Conjunctiva is a nearby tissue and can be quickly affected by it. This can also potentially lead to conjunctivitis.
- Allergic Reaction: Sinus infections can also be accompanied by allergic reactions or irritation, which may manifest as redness, itching, or swelling in the eyes, contributing to the development of pink eye.
- Rubbing Eyes: It can also be caused by rubbing your eyes. Rubbing can spread the bacteria or irritants into the eyes and may lead to this infection.
- Immunological Response: The body’s immune response to a sinus infection can also cause inflammation in the whole respiratory system. It can also trigger pink eyes.
Other Causes Of Pink Eye
Alongside sinus infection, there are several other causes of pink eye as well. You might be suffering from it due to these causes as well. A proper diagnosis will help you find the real cause and treat it properly.
- Viral conjunctivitis
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Irritants (such as smoke, pollution, or chemicals)
- Contact lens-related irritation or infection
- A foreign body in the eye
- Blocked tear ducts
- Dry eye syndrome
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., blepharitis)
- Eye injury or trauma
- Sexually transmitted infections (rare)
- Neonatal conjunctivitis (in newborns, often due to infection during childbirth)
Symptoms Of Pink Eye
These are the symptoms of pink eye. Whatever the reason, if these symptoms sound familiar, then you probably have a pink eye infection, and it’s time to treat it.
- Redness in the white of the eye
- Itchiness or irritation
- Watery eyes
- Grittiness or feeling like there’s something in the eye
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Sensitivity to light
- Discharge from the eye(s)
- Crusty eyelids or eyelashes in the morning
- Blurred vision
How To Get Rid Of Pink Eye Due To A Sinus Infection?
The best way to treat pink eye due to a sinus infection is by visiting a doctor. He will do a thorough examination and diagnose the cause leading to it. Then he will prescribe you the most suitable medication for conjunctivitis according to your symptoms. There are multiple types of medications that could be used, depending on their causes. The most common ones include:
- Antihistamines
- Mast cell stabilizers
- Decongestants
- Steroids
- Anti-inflammatory drops
Alongside the medication, follow his other recommended advice as well. These may include preventing the use of contact lenses, applying warm compresses, etc. Moreover, be careful if it’s viral to prevent its spread to the people around you.
Final Words
Yes, infection can cause pink eyes. Usually, it is not the primary cause of pink eye, but it’s possible. Get a diagnosis from an eye specialist to find its exact cause. Follow his recommended treatments to get rid of it.
Remember, it can be viral as well, so follow the necessary precautions as soon as you notice its symptoms. It will keep the people around you safe. Have you gotten your answers? Let us know in the comment section.