What is the common name for conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is commonly referred to as "pink eye." This term is derived from the characteristic reddish or pink appearance of the eye that occurs when the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye) becomes inflamed. The inflammation can be caused by various factors, including infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, or irritants. The clarity of the term "pink eye" helps laypersons easily identify the condition and understand that it involves redness and inflammation of the eye.

The other options do not accurately represent the condition. "Red eye" can be a more general term for any redness in the eye and does not specifically refer to conjunctivitis. "Dry eye syndrome" describes a different condition where the eye does not produce enough tears to stay lubricated, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the eye surface. "Allergic rhinitis," also known as hay fever, refers to allergy-induced symptoms affecting the nasal passages and is not synonymous with conjunctivitis, although it can sometimes lead to eye symptoms when allergens are present.