What is pinkeye? How is it treated?
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Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (xx102@ofcn.org)
"Pinkeye" is the common name for the problem called CONJUNCTIVITIS. The conjunctiva is a membrane that covers the outside of the eye. It serves to protect the eye. Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of that membrane. There are many different causes of conjunctivitis. The most common causes are viruses, bacterial infections and allergies. There are other causes, as well.
When someone has pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, the white part of the eye looks red. There may be tearing or drainage from the eye. The eye feels gritty or sore. Upon awakening in the morning, the eyelids may be stuck shut. Despite this, vision is usually normal.
Viruses that cause pinkeye are the same viruses that can cause sore throats and runny noses. They are very contagious, meaning that they can spread easily between people. There are no specific medicines that can cure this type of virus. The virus simply runs its course over 10-14 days and then clears up by itself.
Bacterial conjunctivitis will respond to treatment with antibiotic medicines. Although most forms of bacterial conjunctivitis will get better on their own with time, the antibiotics will make the problem clear much faster. There are some forms of bacterial infections that can permanently damage vision if not treated properly.
Allergies, like hayfever, are common causes of conjunctivitis. When allergies cause this problem, the eye tends to itch. There are a wide variety of medicines that can be used to treat allergic problems in the eye.
All eye infections should be evaluated by an eye care professional. Traditionally, ophthalmologists were the only eye care professionals able to treat these problems. Some states have now given optometrists the legal right to prescribe some medications to treat these conditions, as well.
When someone develops pinkeye, he or she must be very careful not to touch the effected eye, so as to prevent the problem from spreading. It is wise to use separate towels and utensils while contagious and to wash hands frequently, especially after touching the eye.
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Copyright, 1994. Richard E. Gans, M.D.
A RICHARD E. GANS, M.D. 11
A A OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic 111
AAAAA xx102@ofcn.org 11
A A A C A D E M Y O N E 1111
http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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