Cold & Eye Infection

The common cold affects millions every year; eye infections, while not as common, are equally contagious and miserable to experience. Knowing about these illnesses and the viruses that cause them will help you stay healthy.

The Cold

• Millions of Americans catch the common cold every year; over 200 different viruses contribute to the various forms of the illness. However, most cold viruses produce the same symptoms: coughing, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing and a runny or congested nose.

Cold Carriers

• Since the cold virus lives in the nasal passages, any mucus or fluid from the mouth or nose can spread the virus. Sneezing or blowing your nose in a tissue, while harmless acts, could potentially infect others.

Eye Infections

• There are many types of eye infections, but conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is the one most commonly associated with the cold. Infected eyes swell, get red, water excessively and burn or itch.

Eye Infection Carriers

• The virus that causes eye infections is contagious; it is easily spread from eye to eye in infected persons. If someone itches his eye and touches something else, the virus can spread quickly.

The Cold and Eye Infections

• Not all those who have the cold get eye infections, and not all with eye infections get a cold. However, it is best to take extra precautions by sanitizing regularly and practicing good hygiene.