Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Conjunctivitis, better known as Pink Eye, is an infection of the inside of your eyelid. It is usually caused by allergies, bacteria, viruses, dust, smoke, or chemicals. It is easily spread to both eyes, and transmitted to other people by hand contact.

Signs and symptoms:

• Red, irritated eye.
• A burning and/or scratchy feeling.
• There may be a pus or a yellow mucous type discharge in the morning.
• Occasional blurry vision which clears with blinking.
• If due to allergies, you may have increased tearing.

Treatment:

• Warm moist compresses can be applied to the closed eye for relief.
• The physician may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for the eyes, depending on what caused the Pink Eye.
• If medication is given, follow the directions on the label.

To prevent the spread of the infection:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently before and after you touch your eyes or face.
• Wash any clothing (including towels and pillowcases) touched by infected eyes.
• Do not share make-up. If the infection is caused by bacteria or a virus, throw away your used make-up and buy new make-up.
• Do not touch the infected eye because the infection will spread to the good eye.

Resource Links:

v Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Conjunctivitis.
(http://lib-sh.lsumc.edu/fammed/pted/pinkeye.html)
 

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