Pretty much every day, patients call us at Doctor &
Associates about their children or themselves and want to know if they have
conjunctivitis or “pink eye”. Realistically, it is impossible to tell without
coming in for an external eye exam, but there are typical signs and symptoms we
do use to diagnose “pink eye” or conjunctivitis when you do come in.
Signs & Symptoms of
“Pink Eye” or Conjunctivitis
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
First, if you have a bacterial infection causing pink eye
conjunctivitis, you will usually have very red eyes. You may find crusting on
your eyelids that can make them stick together as well as a heavy, pus-like
discharge from your eyes that may be greenish at times. This infection may
spread to both eyes.
Viral Conjunctivitis
If you have a viral conjunctivitis we often will find a
very red, swollen eye, crusty eyelids and a more watery discharge. This
discharge can also have strands of mucus or white, ropy strands. While many
cases of viral pink eye infect only one eye, this infection can also spread to
the other eye.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
If you have an allergic conjunctivitis and your allergies
are causing your conjunctivitis, it will often look similar to viral
conjunctivitis. Your eyes will be red and tearing. However, they will also be
itchy. It is likely you may have a stuffy, runny or itchy nose as well.
Treatment of
Conjunctivitis
In most instances, our treatment is typically supportive.
Antibiotics do not treat viral
infections but do work well in treating bacterial conjunctivitis. Regardless
of the cause, it is important to minimize exposure of others by washing your
hands frequently and throwing away used tissues. Do not share towels or pillow
cases. Consider staying home from work or school until you are symptom-free for
24 hours. If you are a contact lens wearer, you should discontinue their use
and stick with glasses until your infection clears. Then start with a fresh
pair of lenses and a clean lens case.
If you or someone you know has
questions or concerns about whether they have “pink eye” conjunctivitis, please
call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113,
visit Doctor & Associates
or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment for an eye exam.
Doctor & Associates offices
are located at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195
Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk,
Connecticut 06851.
