What is Pink Eye?
This is a common eye related problem where the eyelids and the covering of the white of your eye gets inflamed. Pink eye, called conjunctivitis in medical terms can affect anybody but school children, college and office goers, day workers and teachers are at higher risk as the condition is highly contagious. However the heartening part is, pink eye can be effectively and easily treated and if proper care is taken, can be avoided.
The inside of your eyelids called conjunctiva is transparent and contains blood vessels. These blood vessels dilate when an inflammation is triggered causing scary, pink eyes.
What causes pink eye?
- Viral conjunctivitis: This is caused by a virus and highly contagious, but will subside within a few days. There is no need for medical treatment.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: This is caused by bacteria and can seriously damage your eye if you do not seek medical help. Look for the best eye care Houston and protect your eye!
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Pollen, animal dander and dust can cause this kind of conjunctivitis.
Pink eye sometimes might be mistaken for an allergy, visit your eye doctor Houston if you experience any of the following symptoms.
Symptoms of pink eye
- Your eye turns pink.
- Eyes become watery and itchy if you are affected by viral conjunctivitis. One or both the eyes can be affected.
- A sticky, greenish yellow fluid discharges from your eyes if you are suffering from bacterial conjunctivitis.
- You will experience burning, watery eyes and running nose if you are affected by allergic conjunctivitis.
- Seasonal allergies will, most of the time not require medical treatment, they are not contagious. However conjunctivitis will need your doctor’s attention.
Treatments for pink-eye
Pink-eye remedies depend on the kind of conjunctivitis you have.
- Viral conjunctivitis:Apply a wet, cold cloth to your eyes multiple times a day. This will relieve the symptoms to some extent. However ensure the cloth is not shared with others.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Your eye doctor Houston might prescribe antibiotics or eye ointments to treat bacterial conjunctivitis.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergy medicines can be prescribed to control the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
Some of the above said symptoms also show up when you have other allergies. It is therefore wise to see your eye doctor Houston if you have red, watery or irritated eyes.
Prevention of Pink-eye
Take the following precautions to lower the risk of getting conjunctivitis:
- Do not share your tissues or hand towels.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing/sneezing. Do not rub or touch your eyes.
- Never share your contact lenses.
- Wash your hands every now and then, especially when you are at public places such as school/ college.
- Use a hand disinfectant.
- Use an antiseptic cleaner to clean the surfaces such as bathroom vanities, countertops and faucet handles.
- Avoid sharing your phone with others.
- Wear goggles when swimming.
Take care! Visit eye care Houston at the earliest if you experience pink eye symptoms. Precision Eye Care can be a great choice!