Pink Eye

Pink eye treatment first involves identifying the type of pink eye involved.  “Pink Eye” is the name commonly used for a diverse group of conditions that can cause itching, irritation, and redness of the white part of your eye, or sclera.  The medical name for pink eye is conjunctivitis.  This word refers to inflammation (or “itis”) of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the white part of your eye.  Pink eye can be caused by allergic, viral, or bacterial factors.  It is also important to keep in mind that there are many eye diseases and disorders other than pink eye that cause the eye to redden.  Anytime your eye becomes abnormally red, it should be examined by an eye doctor.

Pink Eye Treatment

Pink eye treatment will depend on the cause of the pink eye.  Dr. Adelman will examine your eye and ask you some questions to determine the cause, and the best pink eye treatment for your case.  Typically, allergic pink eye treatment involves: attempting to isolate or remove the allergenic factor, using medications that minimize the allergic response, and using lubricants and supplements for comfort.  Bacterial pink eye treatment generally requires the use of an antibiotic eye drop to control the infection and to keep it from spreading and damaging other eye structures such as the cornea.  Viral pink eye treatment may involve medicated eye drops, but in many cases we will just monitor it as some types of viral eye infections will resolve without treatment.  Because some forms of pink eye can be extremely contagious, it is important you have your eyes examined at the first sign of symptoms, and then do everything possible to minimize the spread of infection.  This includes good hand washing practices and not sharing towels until the condition has resolved.
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