|
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Slideshow:
Causes, Symptoms, & Treatments
1/17
What Is Pinkeye?
Pinkeye -- also called
conjunctivitis -- is redness and inflammation of the clear membranes covering
the whites of the eyes and the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids.
Pinkeye is most often caused by a virus or by a bacterial infection, although allergies,
chemical agents, and underlying diseases can also play a role.
1/17
Is Pinkeye Contagious?
Viral and bacterial
pinkeye are extremely contagious. It's easily spread through poor hand washing
or by sharing an object (like a towel) with someone who has it. It can also
spread through coughing and sneezing. Kids diagnosed with infectious pinkeye should
stay out of school or day care for a short period of time. Allergic pinkeye
(caused by seasonal pollens, animal dander, cosmetics, and perfumes) and
chemical pinkeye (from chemicals or liquids, including bleach and furniture
polish) are not contagious.
1/17
Symptom: Eye Redness
Redness of the eye is
the typical, telltale symptom of pinkeye. Pinkeye is a common condition that is
rarely serious and unlikely to cause long-term eye or vision damage if promptly
detected and treated.
1/17
Symptom: Swollen, Red Eyelids
The symptoms of
infectious pinkeye typically begin in one eye and involve the other eye
within a few days. Symptoms of allergic pinkeye usually involve both eyes and
almost always includes itching. Swelling of the eyelids is more common with
bacterial and allergic pinkeye.
1/17
Symptom: Lots of Tearing
Viral and allergic
pinkeye are known for causing more tear production than usual.
1/17
Symptom: Itchy or Burning Eyes
You would know it if you
felt it -- that overwhelming itchy, burning feeling in the eyes, which is
typical of pinkeye.
1/17
Symptom: Drainage from the Eyes
A clear, watery drainage
is common with viral and allergic pinkeye. When the drainage is more
greenish-yellow (and there's a lot of it), this is likely bacterial pinkeye.
1/17
Symptom: Crusty Eyelids
If you wake up with your
eyes "stuck shut," this may be caused by the discharge that
accumulates during sleep from pinkeye.
1/17
Symptom: Sensitivity to Light
Pinkeye can cause mild
sensitivity to light. A person who has severe symptoms, such as changes in
eyesight, severe light sensitivity, or severe pain may have an infection that
has spread beyond the conjunctiva and should be examined by a doctor.
1/17
Symptom: 'Something in the Eye'
You may notice a
bothersome feeling like something is stuck in your eye. Or, a child may
describe the feeling as sand in the eye.
1/17
Pinkeye Diagnosis
A doctor can often
diagnose pinkeye just by its distinguishing signs and symptoms. However a slit
lamp exam may be required. In some cases, a swab of the discharge from the eye
is sent to a lab to determine the cause.
1/17
When Pinkeye Means Something More
Persistent pinkeye could
be from a severe allergy or infection that needs treatment. Also, the eyelid
could be irritated called blepharitis, or the cornea called dry eye.
Rarely, it is a sign of an illness in the body like rheumatoid arthritis,
systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), or inflammatory bowel diseases, such as
ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Pinkeye is also seen in Kawasaki
disease - a rare disease associated with fever in infants and young children.
1/17
Treating Pinkeye
Bacterial pinkeye is
treated with antibiotic eyedrops, ointment, or pills to clear the infection.
Most viral pinkeye cases have no specific treatment -- you just have to let the
virus run its course, which is usually four to seven days. Allergic pinkeye symptoms
should improve once the allergen source is removed and the allergy itself is
treated but can get relief with antihistamines. Chemical pinkeye requires
prompt washing of the affected eye(s) for five minutes and an immediate call to
the doctor.
1/17
Easing Symptoms
To reduce pain and to
remove the discharge of bacterial or viral pinkeye, use a cold or warm compress
on the eyes. Make sure to use a different washcloth for each eye to prevent
spreading any infection. And use clean washcloths each time. Clean the eye from
drainage by wiping from the inside to the outside of the eye area.
1/17
How Long Am I Contagious?
With bacterial pinkeye,
you can usually return to work or school 24 hours after antibiotics have been
started, as long as symptoms have improved. With viral pinkeye, you are
contagious as long as the symptoms last. Check with your doctor to be certain.
1/17
Preventing Its Spread
If you or your child has
infectious pinkeye, avoid touching the eye area, and wash your hands
frequently, particularly after applying medications to the area. Never share
towels or handkerchiefs, and throw away tissues after each use. Change linens
and towels daily. Disinfect all surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and
doorknobs. Throw away any makeup used while infected.
This tool does not provide medical advice
মন্তব্যসমূহ
একটি মন্তব্য পোস্ট করুন