Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, can cause itching, swelling, and significantly impact your daily activities. At Sites Vision Clinic in Clarksville, TN, we provide various treatments to relieve any uncomfortably symptoms and improve your overall health. Before visiting us, take a look at some frequently asked questions about pink eye below:
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which results in eye redness and irritation. The condition can lead to discomfort, itching, and discharge. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as you notice any of these symptoms to prevent further complications.
What Causes Pink Eye?
There are three primary causes of pink eye, including:
• Viral Conjunctivitis: Viral conjunctivitis is often caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This type of pink eye occurs due to bacteria and is also highly contagious. It typically causes a yellow or green discharge.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Allergic conjunctivitis is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. It is not contagious and is usually accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose.
How is Pink Eye Diagnosed?
Pink eye is typically diagnosed thorough an eye exam by our optometrists. We review your medical history, discuss your symptoms with you, and sometimes analyzing a sample of eye discharge to determine the underlying cause. An accurate diagnosis helps in determining the appropriate treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Pink Eye?
Common symptoms of pink eye include redness in the white part of the eye or inside the eyelids, itching or burning sensations, excessive tearing or discharge, and swollen eyelids. The symptoms may vary depending on whether the conjunctivitis is bacterial, viral, allergic, or due to irritants.
How is Pink Eye Treated?
Treatment for pink eye depends on the cause of the condition. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own and you can experience relief by using warm compresses and artificial tears. Additionally, for allergic conjunctivitis, our eye doctors may recommend antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
When Should You See an Eye Care Professional?
It is important to visit our optometrists if symptoms persist for more than a week or are accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, and increased sensitivity to light. An early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing pink eye effectively.
Contact Sites Vision Clinic for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing any signs of pink eye, let our team at Sites Vision Clinic in Clarksville, TN, help. After an evaluation, we will develop a treatment plan for your specific needs. To schedule your appointment, contact us at (931) 647-5237 today. When you need an optometrist near me, we are ready to assist you!