PINKEYE

Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, is a very contagious infection of the eye. It causes swelling and redness of the tissue covering the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids. Most pinkeye is caused by bacteria or viruses. Parasites and fungal infections can also cause it. Pollutants like smoke, chemicals, allergens, and dust, may also cause or worsen pinkeye. Swimming may be linked to it because of exposure to chlorine in pools or to contaminated water.

A partially blocked tear duct may cause pinkeye in newborns. In a newborn, the tear ducts may not be completely open. Sometimes all that is necessary is to wipe the matter from the eye. At times, antibiotic ointment or eye drops may be ordered.

Symptoms include redness in the eye, burning, itching, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Some people have a sandy feeling in the eye and more tearing than usual. A very common symptom is eye discharge that forms a crust during the night that seals the eye shut. Cool or warm compresses may relieve some discomfort.

When pinkeye is caused by bacteria or virus it is very contagious. It is easily passed from eye to eye and from person to person. Poor hand washing is one of the most common reasons for the spread of pinkeye. It can spread through a whole classroom of children in just a few days. Children should not return to school until they have had 24 hours of medical treatment.

It is important to not share any personal items such as washcloths, towels, or pillowcases with anyone else. Wash these items after use. Do not share eye makeup. Replace all eye makeup that is 6 months old. Do not wear contact lenses until told to do so by your healthcare provider.

When pinkeye is caused by a virus, there is usually an improvement in 3 to 5 days. Medication is not given to treat the virus, but it is still important to take care not to spread the infection. Bacterial infections are a different story. Prescription antibiotic drops are used, although babies are given an ointment. Do not use anyone else's drops, even if they used it for pinkeye in the past.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File EYES3074.rf2 VRS# 7748 Data Version 7.0