What is a Conjunctivitis?
This condition is also known as pink eye because it causes the white of the eye turns into a shade of pink or red. Pinkeye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Although this condition is a minor infection, it can still be contagious and can spread easily.
Please visit your ophthalmologist in Brooklyn to have your eyes checked if you have symptoms for conjunctivitis. At Doral Health and Wellness Ophthalmology Center, our eye doctor will help you with your condition.
Types
There are different types of conjunctivitis, which includes:
- Viral Conjunctivitis – can occur with symptoms of cold, flu, and other respiratory infection
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis – is mostly associated with discharges, such as pus, which causes the eyelids to stick together
- Allergic Conjunctivitis – can occur with symptoms of allergies, such as itchy nose, scratchy throat, or asthma
- Irritant Conjunctivitis – can produce watery eyes and mucus discharge
Symptoms
There are different types of pink eye with slightly different symptoms. The most common symptoms can include:
- Pink or red-toned eyes
- Itchiness in the eyes
- Abnormal amount of tears
- Eye discomfort
- Crusting of eyelids or lashes
- A contact lens that feels uncomfortable
- Discharge of mucus or pus
Causes
Pinkeye happens when the blood vessels in the covering of your eye is inflamed. This inflammation is caused by:
- Viruses – this is the most common cause of pink eye
- Bacteria
- Irritating substances, which can include eye makeup, contact lenses, dirt, or smoke
- Foreign object in your eyes
- Allergens, such as molds or pollens
- Blocked or incompletely opened tear ducts
Treatment
Treatment for pinkeye will depend on its cause. But the most common treatment can include:
- Antibiotics
- Eye drops
- Antihistamines
- Home remedies, such as cold compress and rinsing of eyes using warm water
Pinkeye can be contagious and spread easily thru:
- Transfer of bacteria and/or virus during close contact, such as shaking hands and touching
- If you’ve touched a contaminated surface
- By using an unclean and old eye makeup
Prevention
If you or your loved one have an infectious pinkeye, you should stay at home until you are no longer contagious, to prevent the spread of infection.
Generally, good hygiene and eye care practices are a great help in the prevention of spread of pinkeye. These can include:
- Washing of hands often, especially before touching your face or eyes
- By not touching or rubbing the infected eyes
- Washing any discharges from the eyes
- Not sharing personal items, such as makeup, contact lenses, or towels
Keeping your eyes healthy is as important as keeping your body healthy. If you notice you or your loved one has pinkeye, consult your eye doctor immediately. At Doral Health and Wellness Ophthalmology Center, our eye doctors treat a wide range of ophthalmic problems. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 1-347-384-5690 or visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212. You can also visit our website at https://www.ophthalmologybrooklyn.com.