Pinkeye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the underside of both the upper and
lower eyelids and the covering of the white portion of the eye. The medical term for
pinkeye is conjunctivitis. Some causes of pinkeye and solutions that go with them
are:
Allergic conjunctivitis - a reaction to
airborne pollen, dust, mold spores, animal dander, cosmetics, contact lenses, or direct
contact with chlorinated water. If you can't avoid the allergens, antihistamines and
certain eye drops can help. (Ask your doctor which one(s) to use.)
Bacterial conjunctivitis - an infection
with a puslike discharge. Warm compresses along with an antibiotic ointment or drops
prescribed by your doctor can help. When treated right, bacterial conjunctivitis will
clear up in two to three days but continue to use the medicine as prescribed by your
doctor.
Viral conjunctivitis - a complication of a
cold or flu. This type has less discharge but more tearing than the bacterial form.
Antibiotics don't work. Viral conjunctivitis can take 14 to 21 days to clear up.
Do you have eye pain or are your eyes sensitive to
light?  |
 |
| Do you have a puslike discharge that is
yellowish-green in color? |
|
| Have you tried Self-Care Tips and show no
improvement after 24 hours, or are the symptoms worse? |
 |
To relieve the symptoms of pinkeye:
Don't touch the eye area with your
fingers. If you must wipe your eye, use tissues.
With your eyes closed, apply a washcloth
soaked in warm (not hot) water to the affected eye 3-4 times a day for at least 5 minutes
at a time. (These soaks also help to dissolve the crusty residue of pinkeye.)
Use over-the-counter eyedrops. They may
soothe irritation and help relieve itching.
Avoid wearing eye makeup until the
infection has completely cleared up. Never share makeup with others.
Don't cover or patch the eye. This can make
the infection grow.
Don't wear contact lenses while your eyes
are infected.
Wash your hands often and use your own
towels. Pinkeye is very contagious and can be spread from one person to another by
contaminated fingers, washcloths, or towels.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99