Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis, more commonly referred to as “Pink Eye” is when the eye becomes irritated by an infection or allergies. Conjunctivitis needs to be treated quickly to prevent spreading, as Pink eye is contagious and potentially harmful to your vision and others.

The conjunctiva is the clear, thin membrane that covers some of the surface of your eye. It’s primary function is to keep the surface of the eye and inner eyelids lubricated so that opening and closing of the eyes is easy and non irritating. It also protects the eye from dust, debris or microorganisms that would otherwise harm the eye. In cases where error has occurred, conjunctivitis is diagnosed. The primary forms of conjunctivitis are as follows:

• Viral Conjunctivitis - Not unlike the common cold, viral conjunctivitis is an extremely contagious virus. Without medical treatment it will typically clear up in a matter of days.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis - This form of conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria in the eye. It is extremely dangerous and can cause substantial damage to the eye. This form requires medical treatment
• Allergic Conjunctivitis - Pollen, dust and animal dander can cause allergic conjunctivitis in those susceptible to allergies. A mild form, this conjunctivitis will likely be present so long as the allergen is present.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

• Bacterial conjunctivitis is accompanied by burning, itchy eyes that discharge a thick and sticky mucus. Seek medical care immediately.
• Viral conjunctivitis can cause swelling in the lymph nodes and light discharge from one or both eyes. People with viral conjunctivitis frequently have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection or the common cold.
• Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms include intense itching and tearing of both eyes. Rubbing the irritated areas may worsen symptoms.

Treating Conjunctivitis at Home

Treating conjunctivitis at home depends heavily on what form and severity of conjunctivitis you have. You need to seek medical care if you experience symptoms like trouble seeing, sensitivity to light, your affected eye is producing a lot of pus or mucus, you have a fever or your symptoms have not lessened after a week or more. These are signs of bacterial conjunctivitis that require prescription antibiotics. If you aren’t sure what form of conjunctivitis you have, consult a physician. Some home remedies for pink eye symptoms include:

• Medication painkillers like ibuprofen
• Over the counter lubricating eye drops (artificial tears)
• Creating a compress by soaking a clean washcloth in warm water. Replace the washcloth frequently and sanitize any rags that come in contact with your infected eyes.
• Allergic conjunctivitis can normally be treated at home by taking allergy medication or allergy eye drops.

If you wear contact lenses, refrain from wearing them while you have conjunctivitis, if you cannot avoid wearing them, do not reuse a pair that have been in your eye while you have pink eye. Refrain from wearing eye makeup and throw away old makeup and replace it after you have had pink eye to avoid recontamination.

Pink Eye is a common cause of school absences in children. Due to how contagious it is, it is wise to keep your affected children at home and take them to see an ophthalmologist. To contain the spread of pink eye, replace or sanitize things like pillowcases, sheets, towels and washcloths daily. Maintain basic hygiene by washing hands frequently and showering. Do not share anything that touches your eyes, and remember that pink eye spreads as easily as the common cold, be mindful not to expose others to your infection.