Have you ever woken up with your eyes feeling scratchy or looking a little red? Maybe your child has been rubbing their eyes at school or complaining that everything looks blurry. Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common condition for both adults and kids, but it tends to show up most often in children.
In this blog, we’ll talk about what pink eye is, how to spot it, what causes it, and why it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
What is pink eye?
Pink eye is an inflammation of the thin, clear tissue that covers the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This tissue, called the conjunctiva, can become irritated or infected, leading to the classic redness and discomfort associated with pink eye.
While it often clears on its own, some cases require treatment to avoid complications or reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
Symptoms of pink eye
Common signs of pink eye include¹:
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Itchy or burning sensations
- Watery or thick discharge
- Excessive tearing
- Crusting on the eyelids, especially after sleep
- Sensitivity to light
- A feeling that something is in your eye
If these symptoms appear, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam is the best way to confirm pink eye and rule out more serious eye conditions.
What causes pink eye?
Pink eye can develop from several causes¹:
- Viral infections: Highly contagious and often spreads through direct contact.
- Bacterial infections: Also highly contagious and can cause thick, yellow or green discharge.
- Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies can irritate the conjunctiva, leading to redness and itchiness.
- Irritants: Smoke, chlorine in pools, irritation from a chemical splash, or a foreign object in the eye can trigger symptoms.
Identifying the cause helps your eye doctor recommend the right treatment and prevent further discomfort or complications.
How to treat pink eye
Treatment depends on the type of pink eye:
- Viral: Usually resolves on its own within one to two weeks. Cool compresses and lubricating eye drops can ease discomfort.
- Bacterial: Prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be needed.
- Allergic: Antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops can reduce redness and itching. It’s also critical to avoid the allergen as much as possible.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, sharing towels, or wearing contact lenses until your eye doctor clears it. Our optometrists in Tinley Park can recommend safe treatment options and ensure your eyes heal properly.
Tips for preventing pink eye
Preventing pink eye helps protect your eyes and those around you:
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes
- Don’t share towels, pillows, or makeup
- Clean contact lenses properly and avoid wearing them during an infection
- Replace makeup used near your eyes after an infection
- Stay home from school or work if you’re contagious
These habits help reduce the spread of viral and bacterial pink eye.
How long does pink eye last?
The duration depends on the type:
- Viral pink eye: Usually clears up on its own within 1–2 weeks
- Bacterial pink eye: 2–5 days with proper antibiotic treatment, though it can last for two weeks or longer
- Allergic pink eye: Symptoms last as long as the allergen is present
Prompt evaluation and treatment can shorten discomfort and prevent complications.
Protect your eyes and comfort
Red, itchy, or watery eyes are uncomfortable and sometimes contagious. A comprehensive eye exam allows our optometrists to determine the cause, provide effective treatment, and help prevent future issues.
Schedule your eye exam today to find effective solutions and start feeling better sooner.
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