Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an infection of the lining of the eyelid and eyeball, called the conjunctiva. This infection causes inflammation, which causes redness and irritation. Pinkeye can come about due to a viral infection, bacterial infection or allergies. When you have pinkeye, there are several measures you should take to help yourself recover quickly. It is important that you visit your doctor to treat the pinkeye promptly in order to prevent complications.
Medications
Your physician should determine the cause of pinkeye in order to proceed with the correct treatment plan. If it is bacterial, an antibiotic will be ordered, and if it is viral, the pinkeye will run its course and resolve on its own, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pinkeye related to allergies can be treated with antihistamines, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, steroids and anti-inflammatory drops.
Compresses
Compresses can soothe the symptoms of pinkeye. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a lint-free towel and putting warm water on it. Applying it to the affected eye for a few minutes can help with irritation. Some persons feel cool compresses help. Avoid using the compress on another eye, because infection can be transmitted that way.
Eyedrops
There are over-the-counter eyedrops available that help with eye dryness. Some people find that this helps with symptoms. Sometimes, doctors recommend artificial tears or an eye cleaner to minimize symptoms of pinkeye.
Avoid Allergens
If allergies precipitate the pinkeye, they should be minimized in the affected person's environment. For example, if pollen causes an individual's allergy symptoms, a HEPA filter vacuum should be used to clean, windows should be closed and the person should minimize being outside in the mornings during hay fever season.
Contact Lenses
Do not wear contact lenses when you have pinkeye. Contacts that were contaminated should be disposed of, to prevent reinfection. When you stop putting contacts in your eye, you should soon notice relief from symptoms like redness and irritation.
Good Hygiene
Since pinkeye is an infection, it is important to prevent reinfection, causing infection of another eye and infecting someone else. Wash hands frequently and do not share towels or items that touched the eye. Throwing out makeup that was used on the eye is recommended. Changing pillowcases and disinfecting areas that were touched by the person affected can help minimize transmission. In addition, using strict contact lens hygiene is important after the pinkeye resolves, according to Allaboutvision.com.
