What You Should Know About Pink Eye
“Pink eye” is a term that may sound scary but this common eye problem is easily treated and, with a few simple prevention techniques, can often be avoided. While any individual of any age can get pink eye, preschoolers, schoolchildren, college students, teachers, and daycare workers are particularly at risk for this contagious type of eye infection. Read on for facts about pink eye that you should know.
Causes of Pink Eye
There are different types of pink eye, including viral and bacterial. Viral pink eye is caused by viruses like adenovirus and herpes virus. Generally, this clears up without treatment in 7 to 14 days. Bacterial pink eye, however, is caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumonia. The individual can benefit from taking antibiotics, which should start clearing up the infection within 24 hours. Without antibiotics, most cases of bacterial pink eye improve within 10 days.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
Both viral and bacterial pink eye cause the same general symptoms, including:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Watering eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Swelling
- Burning or irritation
- Crusting of the eyelids or lashes
- Discharge from the eye
Treatment of Pink Eye
Although most cases of bacterial and viral pink eye will heal on their own without treatment, individuals can relieve the symptoms by
- Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to prevent dryness
- Washing away the discharge with a wet washcloth or tissue
- Removing contact lenses and only wearing glasses until the symptoms are gone
- Taking antiviral medicines – some viral pink eye may respond well to medicines
- Using antibiotic eye drops
- Refraining from touching or rubbing the eye
For all of your health concerns and any of your medical needs, visit Sand Canyon Urgent Care. We welcome walk-in patients. Call us at (949) 536-7892 or visit us here to get started!
