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Pinkeye Tips and Cautions

Pinkeye, the non-medical term for conjunctivitis, occurs when the clear membrane that covers the white of the eye, known as the conjunctive, and the inner eyelids become inflamed. At first, the eyes are red and itchy. Later, there may be a watery secretion. Common symptoms that appear in most cases of pinkeye are: eyelids stuck shut when you wake up in the morning; an uncomfortable, thick yellow or green discharge; thin, clear drainage from the eye; itching, burning, or a feeling like sand is in your eye.

Pinkeye can be a result of either a viral or bacterial infection. All types of pinkeye are highly contagious; it can be easily contracted by touching something an infected person has touched, or from airborne spores that are sent into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Both viral and bacterial types of pinkeye can be spread in swimming pools, or when a contaminated towel or washcloth is used. To prevent spreading, limit your contact with others until your symptoms have completely cleared. Be sure to carefully wash your hands every time you touch the area around your eye.

* Keep your own towels, washcloths, and pillows†separate from others, and use paper towels when possible.

* Wash or change your pillowcase every day until the infection goes away.

* Do not touch your infected eye with your fingers. Use tissues to wipe.

* Do not wear eye makeup. Never share eye makeup.

* Do not wear your contact lenses until the infection is gone.

* Put a warm compress, such as a washcloth soaked in warm water, on your eye for a few minutes, 3-4 times a day. This eases the pain and helps break up the crust that may form on your eyelashes.

* Use over-the-counter†artificial tears to help with itching and irritation. Do not share eye drops. You can spread the infection to anyone else who uses them.

* Do not put a patch over your eye. It may cause the infection to become worse.

* Do not use eye drops for more than a few days unless instructed by your ophthalmologist. Worsening redness could result from repeated use of such products.

If the problem is not rapidly improving, see a physician. Antibiotic eye drops are very effective in treating pink eye.