Also known as conjunctivitis, pink eye occurs when the membrane that covers the white part of your eye becomes inflamed or infected. Due to the irritation, blood vessels swell and become visible, contributing to the eye’s pink appearance. Often, the pink eye won’t warrant a trip to the eye doctor’s office. Yet, cases that don’t clear up could require professional help. Discover what you should do for pink eye below.

A Guide to Pink Eye

What Are the Symptoms?

In addition to the characteristic redness of the condition, patients with pink eye may also experience a gritty sensation or the feeling that something is in the eye. Itching and burning sensations may occur as well, along with watery eyes and puffiness of the eyelid. You may also experience sensitivity to light and blurred vision. Sometimes, the eye may also experience discharge or pus.

What Causes Pink Eye?

Pink eye has several potential causes, including:

• Viruses: Viruses are responsible for most cases of conjunctivitis. The viruses that cause the condition are the same as those that lead to the common cold. Thus, washing your hands before you touch your eye and avoiding contact with people who have pink eye is an essential way to reduce your risk of contracting it.
• Bacteria: A bacterial infection may also cause pink eye. Like the viral form, bacterial conjunctivitis can spread quickly between individuals. In addition to avoiding contact with anyone who has pink eye, cleaning your contact lenses thoroughly to eliminate any bacteria can also help you prevent the condition.
• Allergies: Allergic conjunctivitis is a response to allergy triggers such as pollen. This condition occurs when the body produces antibodies that kickstart cells in the eyes’ mucous lining to release histamines. Eye irritation develops as a result.

How Is It Treated?

The treatment for conjunctivitis depends on its root cause. If you suspect your pink eye results from allergies, your eye doctor may offer allergy eye drops to ease your symptoms. On the other hand, viral infections typically pass on their own. Use a cool compress on your eyes to alleviate discomfort in the meantime. If symptoms don’t start to fade within a day, visit your eye doctor. They may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or check for any other eye conditions which could be present.

Whether you’re experiencing an eye issue or you’re due for an exam, the team from Eye Care Locale in Dayton, OH, will help. Dr. Gridley, the practice’s eye doctor, has been practicing optometry since 1974 and is committed to helping you find the best solutions for your eye care needs. Browse through their services online or call (937) 222-2452 to schedule an appointment.