Pink eye is a common term used to describe an inflammation of the eye ailment called conjunctivitis. This ailment causes itching, burning, stinging, irritation, pain, grittiness, crusting or sensitivity to light, suggests AllAboutVision.com. Conjunctivitis is typically cased by a bacteria, viruses or eye irritants. Some individuals may develop pink eye from dust, smoke or allergens in the air. Treatment of conjunctivitis consists of an eye drop solution that fits the cause, such as an antibiotic for bacteria infection or an antihistamine for allergy-induced pink eye. Viral infections are usually treated with warm compresses or lubricating eye drops.
Step 1
Wash your hands with soap and water before beginning to apply the eye drops. Dry the hands thoroughly with a clean towel.
Step 2
Review the prescription label to determine the number of drops to be used.
Step 3
Tilt the head back and pull the lower eyelid away from the eye with the index finger. This will form a pouch for liquid medicine.
Step 4
Administer the drops into the pouch and close the eyes normally. Avoid squinting tightly as this can force the medicine out of the eye.
Step 5
Place light pressure on the eye by putting the finger on the corner of the eye for one to two minutes.
Step 6
Remove excess medicine that runs from the eye with a clean tissue. Repeat the steps for the other eye. Typically the medicine is only applied once per day.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a warm wash cloth to cover the closed eye throughout the day to alleviate pain or irritation until the infection clears. Request an ointment for infants and young children for easier administration.
- Do not touch the tip of the eye drop bottle to the eye as this can contaminate the entire prescription. Discuss using contact lenses with the health care provide as some medicines may deteriorate the lenses or cause significant irritation. Follow the prescription instructions carefully, including the duration of treatment, to fully cure the infection.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Water
- Towel
- Drops
- Tissues
