St. George Utah Optometrist Explains Pink Eye – What It Is And What To Watch For

Are you experiencing red, itchy and watery eyes?  It very well could be pink eye!

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is a broad term used to identify an eye condition, also known as Conjunctivitis, in which there is irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear coating of the white of the eye and inside of the eyelids.  There are three major types of Conjunctivitis and a variety of symptoms.

Types of Conjunctivitis

1. Infectious – Infectious conjunctivitis is the type of pink eye that most people think of when they think of “Pink Eye.” It is highly contagious and can stem from either a bacterial infection or a viral infection. A bacterial infection can cause serious damage if left untreated. It will need antibiotic eye drops to relieve the infection.  Viral conjunctivitis usually lasts one to two weeks and will heal on its own. Both can be painful and cause much discomfort.  Warm compresses can help to relieve the swelling and irritation.
2. Allergic – Allergic conjunctivitis usually occurs with people who already suffer from seasonal allergies.  It is caused by pollen, dust and dander in the air, and it is not contagious.   This type of conjunctivitis can usually be treated with an allergy eye drop.
3.  Chemical – Noxious chemicals in the air or water, like chlorine in a swimming pool, can cause chemical conjunctivitis.  Like the allergic type, however, this type of conjunctivitis is not contagious.  Wearing appropriate eye protection while swimming or exposed to irritating chemicals in the air will help to prevent chemical conjunctivitis.

Watch For These Symptoms Of Pink Eye

• Swollen eyelids
• Itching or burning
• Redness
• Gritty feeling in the eye
• A discharge coming from the eye
• Light sensitivity

There are some simple preventative measures to help protect you from getting pink eye, like washing your hands often, and not touching or rubbing your eyes, but if you find yourself experiencing any of the symptoms and suspect you might have pink eye, call our office right away and have Dr. Smith take a look.  435.359.2020

The content found on this blog is for information purposes only.  It is not intended to take the place of professional medical advice from your eye care provider.   Always seek treatment from a qualified health care provider with all your eye health and medical questions regarding your health.