How Do Eye Doctors Treat Pink Eye?

Do you have pink, itchy eyes? You may have conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye.

Pink eye is a common eye condition often caused by allergies or infections. Because there are different kinds of pink eye, treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and what causes the pink eye.

Pink eye can be uncomfortable, so finding treatment can help bring much-needed relief. Keep reading to learn how eye doctors treat pink eye.

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the clear membrane that covers your eyes and the inside of your eyelids. This membrane is called the conjunctiva.

Pink eye has many underlying causes and can be short-term or long-term. The symptoms of short-term pink eye can last less than four weeks, but long-term pink eye can last much longer. 

What Causes Pink Eye?

Pink eye has multiple causes, but they fall into two categories:

Infectious

Infectious causes are contagious, meaning they can spread from person to person. These forms of pink eye are easily transmitted.

Infections that cause pink eye can come from viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic conditions, with viral and bacterial pink eye being the most common.

Non-Infectious

Non-infectious causes of pink eye aren’t contagious. The most common non-infectious causes include allergens and irritants in products or the environment.

Common irritants that can cause pink eye include contact solution, smoke, and pool chlorine. Non-infectious pink eye can also occur because of immune disorders or eye injuries.

What are the Symptoms of Pink Eye?

The most obvious sign of pink eye is a pinkish or reddish appearance over the eye’s surface. Pink eye also has many other potential symptoms, including:

• Eye discharge
• Feeling like something is in your eye
• Dry eyes
• Watery eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Eye pain
• Swollen eyelids
• Burning sensations
• Blurry vision

These symptoms are also common with other eye conditions, so you should see your eye doctor at Mid Ohio Eye so they can accurately diagnose and treat your condition.

What are the Treatment Options for Pink Eye?

While your eye doctor can treat pink eye, it’s typically diagnosed and treated through primary care doctors or pediatricians. They can test to see if your pink eye is infectious or non-infectious and prescribe medication, such as antibiotics, allergy medications, or antifungals.

If you do have pink eye, it’s best to see a doctor or eye doctor for an official diagnosis. You can also try some at-home options to relieve symptoms, such as cold compresses and over-the-counter eye drops.

Sometimes, pink eye is a sign of a serious issue like an ulcer. If you have the following symptoms, call a doctor or go to an emergency room:

• Increased light sensitivity
• Eye pain
• Copious amounts of discharge
• Noticeable vision changes

If symptoms worsen or appear suddenly, you’ll want to see a medical professional immediately. If you have persistent issues with pink eye, scheduling an appointment with your eye doctor can help you access more thorough examinations and a comprehensive range of treatment options.

Do you want relief from pink eye symptoms? Schedule an appointment at Mid Ohio Eye in Colombus, OH, today!