The Truth About Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. It’s uncomfortable, unsightly, and can last anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks.
Causes and Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
Causes of conjunctivitis include viruses, bacteria, irritants, and allergies. Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria can spread easily from person to person.
You may be experiencing symptoms of conjunctivitis if there is redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid, an increased amount of tears, thick yellow discharge that crusts over lashes, itchy eyes, or blurred vision. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your eye doctor immediately. Early detection of conjunctivitis can reduce the amount of time of infection.
Conjunctivitis Treatment
The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause. Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria is treated with antibiotics in the form of eye drops, ointments, or pills. If the medication is taken or applied correctly, the infection should improve within a week.
Allergic conjunctivitis needs to be addressed and treated with drops and should start to improve once the allergies have subsided, or the allergen is removed.
I Have Conjunctivitis – Now What?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis and have already called your eye doctor, there are a few precautionary actions you should take prior to or post-appointment. Don’t scratch your eye. Relieve the burn with a cold compress lightly pressed against the eye. Understand that the infection is potentially contagious, and be cautious of that fact when spending time around friends, classmates, or family.
CALL THE CATONSVILLE EYE GROUP TODAY!
Here at the Catonsville Eye Group, providing the best patient care is out #1 priority. The professionalism of our doctors coupled with our capable and caring staff, state of the art technology, and extensive frame and lens options are what have made Catonsville Eye Group the first choice for families in our community. We strive to provide the best possible professional care at fair and reasonable prices to our patients in the most courteous way possible!
If you would like to schedule an appointment, order contact lenses, or ask questions about our services at Catonsville Eye Group, please call our office at (410) 747-1221 or email us by clicking this link. We will respond to your request within 24 hours. You can also schedule an appointment online! You can access our web scheduler through our website or Facebook page.
We’re located at the heart of the Music City at 611 Frederick Rd., Suite 101. Drop on by, or schedule an appointment today. We’re looking forward to seeing you!