Causes and Treatment of Pink Eye
article source: ezinearticles.com
What is Pink Eye?
Pink
eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is swelling and redness of the
membranes (conjunctiva) on the inner parts of the eyelid and the eye
surface. Pink eye is very common. It is usually not serious, and often
goes away in a few days without medical treatment.
What Causes Pink Eye? Is It Contagious?
The
leading cause of pink eye is a viral infection, which is highly
contagious. Bacteria such as staphylococci, pneumococci, and
streptococci cause bacterial pink eye, which is also very contagious.
Non-contagious pink eye can result from allergies or exposure to
chemical irritants. Rheumatic diseases, Kawasaki’s disease, and certain
inflammatory bowel diseases can cause pinkeye. Additionally, dry eyes
from lack of tears or exposure to wind and sun can cause pink eye, as
can foreign bodies such as dirt or bugs.
To protect your eyes,you need to take glasses online:
eyeglasses sunglasses online buy glasses eyeglasses eye glasses
Symptoms of Pink Eye
-
Viral conjunctivitis is often caused by an upper respiratory tract
infection, and the cold-like symptoms that accompany such viral
infections. Discharge is watery, rather than green or yellow.
-
Bacterial conjunctivitis is often associated with eye pain, redness,
tearing, irritation, and moderate to large amounts of discharge,
usually yellowish or greenish in color.
- Allergic conjunctivitis
symptoms usually include intense itching, tearing, and swelling of the
eye membranes. Other typical allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy
nose or scratchy throat may also be present.
Treatment Options for Common Pink Eye Infections
Viral Conjunctiva Treatment
Although
most viral pink eye will not require antibiotic treatment, sufferers
should still see their doctor. This type of pinkeye can be associated
with infection of the cornea, which requires early detection and
treatment. Symptoms of viral pinkeye can be relieved with cool
compresses and artificial tears. In extreme cases, topical steroid
drops may be prescribed to reduce discomfort.
Bacterial Conjunctiva Treatment
Antibiotic
eye drops or ointments are generally prescribed for bacterial pinkeye.
Moderate to large amounts of discharge accumulates during sleep,
resulting in the sensation of the eyes being “stuck shut” upon
awakening. Applying a damp, warm wash cloth to the eyes, being careful
to use a different washcloth for each eye, will remove the discharge.
Allergic Conjunctiva Treatment
Over-the-counter
decongestant eye drops can relieve seasonally occurring allergic
pinkeye. Cold, moist wash cloths can also be applied to the eyes.
Again, care should be taken to use a different cloth for each eye. In
extreme cases, a prescription may be necessary.
Tips for Administering Eye Drops to Young Children
Rather
than frightening a child by forcing the eye open while the bottle or
dropper is plainly visible, try this: ask the child to lie back and
close his or her eyes. Place the recommended number of drops in the
inner corner of the eye, next to the bridge of the nose. The drops will
form a little pool and when the child’s eyes open, the drops will flow
gently into the infected areas without a fuss.