Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye)

Causes for Pinkeye?

Symptoms of Pinkeye?

Treatments for Pinkeye

How to Prevent Spreading Pinkeye?

How to Avoid Getting Pinkeye?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. Pinkeye is not serious health risk if diagnosed promptly. But Pinkeye in newborn babies, could be a vision-threatening infection.

Causes for Pinkeye?

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Irritants such as shampoos, dirt, smoke, and pool chlorine
• Allergies, like dust, pollen, or a special type of allergy that affects some contact lens wearers

Symptoms of Pinkeye?

The symptoms of pinkeye based on the cause of the inflammation.

• Redness in the white area of the eye or inner eyelid
• Increased amount of tears
• Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep
• Green or white discharge from the eye
• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Blurred vision
• Increased sensitivity to light

Treatments for Pinkeye

The Treatments of pinkeye based on the cause of the inflammation.

Bacterial Pinkeye is treated with antibiotics, in the form of eye drops, ointments, or pills.

Viral Pinkeye No special treatments. Viral conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. Avoid contact with others and wash your hands frequently.

Irritants. For pinkeye caused by an irritating substance, use water to wash the substance from the eye for five minutes. If the conjunctivitis is caused by acid or alkaline material, immediately rinse the eyes with lots of water and visit a doctor immediately.

Allergies. Allergy-associated conjunctivitis should improve once the allergy is treated and the allergen removed. Antihistamines (either oral or drops) can give relief.

How to Prevent Spreading Pinkeye?

 

• Don't touch or rub the infected eye(s).
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially before eating.
• Wash any discharge from your eyes several times a day using a fresh cotton ball or paper towel.
• Wash your bed linens, pillowcases, and towels in hot water and detergent.
• Avoid wearing eye makeup.
• Don't share eye makeup with anyone.
• Never wear another person's contact lenses.
• Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
• Throw away disposable lenses or be sure to clean extended-wear lenses and all eyewear cases.
• Avoid sharing unwashed towels.
• Wash your hands after applying the eye drops or ointment.
• Be at home until you are no longer contagious.

How to Avoid Getting Pinkeye?

• Maintaining proper hygiene such as frequent hand washing should minimize transmission.
• Avoid touching your face since the virus can enter the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoiding allergens and taking proper care of your contact lenses can help reduce the risk.
• Avoid sharing washcloths, towels, pillowcases, mascara, or eyeliner with the person.