Also known as conjunctivitis, pink eye is an infection common in children, who spend most of their days in close proximity to others. However, adults can also develop the condition. Although it’s uncomfortable, it’s easily treatable and rarely affects vision. However, because it’s very contagious, an eye doctor should treat it right away. Here’s what you need to know about this infection.

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is an infection or inflammation of the transparent membranes in your eyelids and over the whites of your eyes, called conjunctiva. In most cases, it’s caused by a common cold virus, bacteria, or allergies. Rarely, it can be due to something splashing in the eye or the introduction of a foreign object.

The most obvious sign of pink eye is redness in one or both eyes, as well as excessive tearing or watering. In bacterial conjunctivitis, in particular, the infection may cause a sticky discharge. During the night, while you sleep, this discharge can crust over and make it difficult to open your eyes. Your eyes may also feel itchy or gritty, or even a little sore.

How Does It Spread?

Sometimes, a cold or respiratory virus can cause pink eye. However, because it’s a highly contagious infection, it’s often spread by coming into contact with the bacteria and then touching your eyes. Pink eye can also stem from improperly cleaning contact lenses or using someone else’s. Even trying on someone else’s glasses or using their eye makeup can cause you to contract the condition.

Unlike viral and bacterial pink eye, redness and discomfort caused by everyday irritation isn’t contagious and normally clears up on its own after a day or two. However, if you know you got something in your eye, and flushing it out doesn’t help the symptoms, call your eye doctor right away because it can affect your vision.

How Can You Treat It?

If your eye doctor diagnoses pink eye, they may advise you to stay home for a few days to prevent spreading the infection. Viral conjunctivitis treatment is mostly focused on relieving the symptoms, typically with warm compresses, artificial tears, and gently cleaning your eyelids a few times a day. If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops or ointment in addition to the aforementioned relief measures. To keep from spreading the condition, do the following:

• Avoid touching your eyes
• Wash your hands before and after every treatment
• Avoid sharing towels or linens with others
• Throw away disposable contact lenses and eye makeup

If you have symptoms of pink eye, contact the eye doctor at Eye Care Optical in Cincinnati, OH, for a quick diagnosis and treatment. If you need glasses, their team of optometrists will help you find the perfect pair. For an eye exam in Hamilton County, call (513) 731-6587, and visit them online to learn more about the practice.