The myth that farting on pillows can cause pink eye is not true.
Dr. Amir Mozavi supports that conclusion.
He points out in a 2017 article that flatulence (farting) is primarily methane gas, and methane gas doesn’t contain bacteria. Any bacteria present in the fart would die quickly once outside the body.
Poop — or more specifically, the bacteria or viruses in poop — can cause pink eye.
According to the
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends avoiding directly touching your anus and then directly touching your eye. You could transfer bacteria that can cause bacterial conjunctivitis, a common form of pink eye.
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear membrane that covers the white part of your eyeball and lines your eyelid.
Pink eye is commonly caused by:
- allergies, such as pollen, mold, animal dander
- bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis
- viruses, such as adenoviruses, rubella virus, and herpes viruses
- foreign object in your eye
- chemical splash in your eye
- blocked tear duct (in newborns)
According to the Mayo Clinic, conjunctivitis is contagious, but about as contagious as the common cold.
To manage the transmission of pink eye, practice good hygiene, such as:
- washing your hands often, especially after going to the restroom
- avoiding touching your eyes
- throwing away contact lenses worn since contracting pink eye
- using clean washcloths and towels daily
- avoiding share washcloths, towels, personal eye care items, or cosmetics
- changing your pillowcases often
More about farts
Flatulence is the passing of intestinal gas through the rectum. The gas usually can be sourced to either intestinal bacteria working on undigested food or swallowed air.
Most humans pass gas (fart) a minimum of 14 times a day, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Although not as common, certain medications can cause gas, such as the drug orlistat (Xenical), which is used to help maintain a healthy weight.
The drug cholestyramine (Questran), which is used to treat high cholesterol, can also cause gas.
Flatulence can also be a symptom of giardiasis (parasitic infection) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Can you get pink eye from a fart? No.
However, pink eye is a contagious medical condition. You can take steps to prevent its transmission by practicing good hygiene and not touching your eyes with unclean hands.