What is pink eye?
Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition that causes inflammation or infection of the membrane covering the white of your eye. It causes the whites of the eyes to appear pink or red and usually makes them quite uncomfortable.
Bacterial or viral infections and allergic reactions are common causes of pink eye. Treatment offers you relief and reduces the risk of spreading pink eye to other people.
What are the symptoms of pink eye?
The symptoms of pink eye include:
- Itchiness
- Eye redness
- Tenderness
- Gritty feeling in the affected eye
- Tearing
- Eye discharge
- Crusty eyes
- Feeling like something is stuck in your eye
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
When left untreated, pink eye can cause inflammation that affects your vision. It’s also contagious, so you need to contact Athens Eye Consultants at the first sign of a problem.
What are the risk factors for pink eye?
The common causes and risk factors for contracting pink eye include:
- Allergies
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Chemicals
- Blocked tear ducts
- Foreign object in your eye
- Using contact lenses
- Exposure to someone with pink eye
Pink eye is contagious, spreading easily from person to person by touching your eye after touching shared surfaces. To reduce the spread of pink eye, avoid touching your eyes with your hands, wash your hands often, and don’t share personal items with other people.
How does my doctor diagnose pink eye?
Dr. Gadlin diagnoses pink eye after reviewing your eye health history, symptoms, and lifestyle. He also examines your eyes. In some cases, he takes a sample of fluid draining from your eye and submits it to a lab for analysis.
How is pink eye treated?
The standard treatment for pink eye is medicated eye drops. Dr. Gadlin can write you a prescription for the drops, and it’s necessary to use them precisely as directed.
To reduce discomfort, you can apply a compress to your eyes or use artificial tears. Stop wearing contact lenses until your eyes heal, and get new contacts and makeup to prevent re-infection.
To get relief from bothersome pink eye symptoms and allow your eyes to heal, call the Athens Eye Consultants office or use the online booking tool today.