Pink Eye Horror: How to Prevent and Treat
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Oh the horror of waking up with one or both eyes firetruck red, inflamed, burning, itching, and discharging sticky mucus. You show your friends and/or family members and they jump
back 10 steps. “You have pink eye! Stay away from me!”
back 10 steps. “You have pink eye! Stay away from me!”
Or if you are a parent and your child approaches with goop-filled eyes while rubbing them
with the palms of their hands, your instincts may tell you to run from the germ monster.
with the palms of their hands, your instincts may tell you to run from the germ monster.
According to the organization All About Vision, pink eye isn’t as scary as humanity has chalked
it up to be. Yes, it’s true that anyone cat catch it — especially preschoolers, schoolchildren,
college students, teachers, parents, and daycare workers — however, there are precautions
that can be taken and treatment is usually quite easy.
it up to be. Yes, it’s true that anyone cat catch it — especially preschoolers, schoolchildren,
college students, teachers, parents, and daycare workers — however, there are precautions
that can be taken and treatment is usually quite easy.
What Exactly is Pink Eye and How Does it Develop?
The condition is scientifically referred to as conjunctivitis — or the inflammation of the thin, clear
covering of the white of the eye. It also can affect the inside of your eyelids. It is highly contagious
and can arise from a handful of conditions.
covering of the white of the eye. It also can affect the inside of your eyelids. It is highly contagious
and can arise from a handful of conditions.
Common Types of Conjunctivitis
- Viral ConjunctivitisThe result of a virus, such as the common cold, this version of pink eye is quite contagious
and normally clears up without the aid of a doctor’s help. - Bacterial Conjunctivitis Commonly the cause of yellow or greenish-yellow discharge that
floats to the corner of the eye. If eyelids are sticking together after sleep, it is probable there
is a bacterial issue. - Allergy ConjunctivitisCaused by environmental or food allergens, the eyes become watery, sting and itch.
Symptoms also include a runny nose, stuffiness, and even light sensitivity.
How to Treat Pink Eye
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for the treatment of pink eye. It all depends on the type of
conjunctivitis that has been caught:
conjunctivitis that has been caught:
- Viral ConjunctivitisAs mentioned above, viral conjunctivitis normally clears up on its own within days without
medical treatment. A simple remedy for the pains and frustrations associated with the
condition is to use a cold, wet washcloth throughout the day. Hold the washcloth softly
against closed eyes and avoid rubbing. Remember that an infected eye is highly
contagious, making the washcloth a germ receptacle. Place all used rags in the washing
machine or in a sealed bag after use. - Bacterial ConjunctivitisNormally, bacterial infections don’t tend to heal without doctor prescribed antibiotics in the
form of eye drops or ointments. Visit your doctor’s office for an examination, and they will
prescribe the right medication for your condition. - Allergy ConjunctivitisIt is possible to solve allergy-related conjunctivitis with common over-the-counter
medications. If for any reason the condition becomes chronic, it is an excellent idea to head
to the doctor for an allergy test. This will reveal whether or not the issue is environmental or
food related.
How to Prevent Pink Eye Before it Begins
There are a number of precautions that you can take to avoid catching pink eye. Make sure you
share them with your family members and friends:
share them with your family members and friends:
1. Avoid sharing wash clothes, towels, and tissues.
2. Wash your hands several times throughout the day, especially when in a public place.
3. NEVER share contact lenses. This is a sure way to catch all sorts of eye infections.
4. Don’t rub your eyes with your hands.
5. Carry hand disinfectant with you and use it throughout the day.
6. Keep your home clean — especially door knobs, counter-tops, faucet handles, phones, and
any other objects that are frequently handled.
any other objects that are frequently handled.
7. Wear swim goggles in the pool, lakes, rivers, and oceans to avoid bacteria and other
microorganisms that may lurk in the water.
microorganisms that may lurk in the water.
8. Prior to entering a hot tub or various bodies of water, it is recommended that you remove your
contact lenses. This will prevent bacteria from coming in contact with your eyes. If your vision is
very poor, it is wise to invest in a pair of prescription strength swim goggles.
contact lenses. This will prevent bacteria from coming in contact with your eyes. If your vision is
very poor, it is wise to invest in a pair of prescription strength swim goggles.
9. Replace your contact lenses in the time-frame your doctor prescribes.
10. Understand the source of your allergies and take proactive measures to reduce your chance
of flair-up.
of flair-up.
Whatever you do, don’t panic when you, your spouse, or child comes down with pink eye. It
definitely isn’t the plague and eyes rarely fall out (just joking — actually they never do).
definitely isn’t the plague and eyes rarely fall out (just joking — actually they never do).
The key is that you take proactive steps to maintain and protect your eyes!
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