Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common and often uncomfortable eye condition. With back-to-school approaching, it is common for students to experience pink eye. The symptoms range from redness and itching to discharge and swelling, which can be pretty alarming. However, not every case of red, irritated eyes is pink eye. Do you have persistent and painful pink eye? Come to SD Eye Care, an Edmonton optometrist with locations across the city.
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. There are four main types of pink eye:
Viral conjunctivitis is often caused by the same virus responsible for the common cold. It is highly contagious and typically spreads through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms include watery discharge, redness, and sometimes a sore throat. Bacterial conjunctivitis, caused by bacteria, results in a thicker, often yellow or green discharge that can crust over the eyelashes, especially after sleep. This type is also contagious and usually requires antibiotic treatment.
Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, and tearing. Irritant conjunctivitis is caused by irritants like smoke, chlorine, or foreign objects in the eye. Symptoms include redness and discomfort, typically resolving once the irritant is removed.
Symptoms of Pink Eye vs. Other Eye Conditions
Pink eye presents with various symptoms depending on its type. Viral conjunctivitis typically shows watery discharge and redness, sometimes accompanied by a sore throat. Bacterial conjunctivitis is characterized by yellow or green discharge, crusting of the eyelashes, and redness. Allergic conjunctivitis causes intense itching, redness, and tearing, while irritant conjunctivitis leads to redness and discomfort.
Other eye conditions can mimic some symptoms of pink eye but have distinct characteristics. Dry eye causes a burning or gritty feeling, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision but usually does not involve significant redness or discharge. Styes present as red, painful lumps near the edge of the eyelid with localized swelling and tenderness. Blepharitis involves inflammation of the eyelids, crusty eyelashes, and itching but generally does not cause the widespread redness associated with pink eye. Foreign objects in the eye cause immediate discomfort, tearing, and blinking, with symptoms resolving once the object is removed.
How to Tell if You Have Pink Eye
Identifying pink eye at home can be challenging, but certain signs can help. Use this self-assessment checklist: Are your eyes red? Do you have a discharge (clear and watery for viral, thick and coloured for bacterial)? Are your eyes itchy (common in allergic conjunctivitis)? Have you been exposed to someone with pink eye? Are there other symptoms like a sore throat or cold symptoms?
If you answer “yes” to several of these questions, you might have pink eye. However, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What to Do If You Have Pink Eye
If you suspect you have pink eye, start with some basic home care practices. Good hygiene is crucial to prevent spreading the infection. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes. Do not share towels, pillows, or cosmetics. For relief, use warm compresses for bacterial or viral conjunctivitis and cool compresses for allergic conjunctivitis. Over-the-counter artificial tears can help soothe irritation.
It is essential to seek medical help if symptoms are severe, persist for more than a week, or worsen. Also, seek immediate medical attention if you experience vision changes or significant pain. An optometrist can perform a comprehensive eye exam, including taking your medical history and possibly conducting tests to determine the type of conjunctivitis.
How an Optometrist Can Help
Optometrists have the expertise to diagnose the type of pink eye accurately. They will use tools like a slit-lamp examination to closely inspect your eye. Depending on the type of conjunctivitis, they may prescribe antibiotic eye drops for bacterial pink eye, antiviral drops for severe viral conjunctivitis, or antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis.
Preventing Pink Eye
Preventing pink eye involves good hygiene practices and being mindful of your environment. Regularly wash your hands, avoid touching your eyes, and properly clean and store contact lenses. Do not share personal items like towels, pillows, and cosmetics. For contact lens wearers, ensure proper lens care by cleaning and storing them correctly and avoid wearing contact lenses if you have pink eye until the infection is fully resolved. Schedule regular eye check-ups to ensure your contact lenses are suitable and safe for your eyes.
Identifying pink eye and distinguishing it from other eye conditions can be challenging but is crucial for effective treatment. Practicing good hygiene, seeking timely professional help, and following preventive measures can help manage and prevent pink eye. At SD Eyecare, located in the West Edmonton Mall and across Edmonton, we are dedicated to providing expert advice and treatment to ensure your eye health. If you suspect you have pink eye, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us for a comprehensive eye examination and personalized care. Prioritize your eye health today for a clearer, brighter tomorrow.