What is a Cold in Your Eye?

Significance

• Colds in the eye cause redness and swelling in the mucus membrane on the eyelid and eye surface.
  
  

Features

• Excess tearing, feeling like there's something in your eye, itching and burning, light sensitivity and goopy discharge may accompany the redness.
  
  

Types

• Viruses and bacteria cause pinkeye, as well as dryness, allergies, chemicals, fumes and smoke.
  
  

Warning

• Pinkeye caused by viruses and bacteria is highly contagious.
  
  

Time Frame

• The duration of the infection is usually seven to 10 days.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Prevent colds in your eye---or at least their spread---with good hand washing. Also, avoid touching your eyes, and use disinfectant sprays.