Regional Health Services of Howard County-Weekly Health Tip

CONJUNCTIVITIS (Pink Eye)

By Tanya Vreeke, DO

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis refers to either infection or inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the white of your eyes. This membrane passes over the eye itself and inside both eyelids producing mucus to coat and lubricate the surface of the eye. When the membrane becomes irritated, the blood vessels enlarge making the eye appear red in color. It is often referred to as “pink eye”. There are four different types of conjunctivitis:

Chemical Conjunctivitis:

This is what chlorine does to our eyes after swimming in a pool. It is just an irritation, and resolves on its own without treatment. The eyes can be soothed with products such as saline eye drops or artificial tears.

Allergic Conjunctivitis:

This refers to the itchy, red, or watery eyes, which occur in reaction to allergens such as pollens, dust, pet dander, etc. This may be treated with over-the-counter allergy eye drops and oral antihistamines such as Benedryl or Chlortrimeton. There are also several very good prescription allergy eye drops and antihistamines that your physician may choose to prescribe.

Viral Conjunctivitis:

This can occur by itself or in association with a viral upper respiratory infection (a cold). The eyes are pink to red, watery or with cloudy mucus and occasionally a small amount of pus. This DOES NOT require an antibiotic, and resolves by itself in about one week. Cool compresses and saline, or other moisturizing eye drops, can be comforting.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis:

This infection also occurs either by itself, or in association with a cold. The eye is very red, with a heavy whitish-yellow to green discharge. The discharge commonly re-accumulates very quickly after cleansing the eye. This does require a topical antibiotic, which would be prescribed by a physician.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be quite contagious, so contact with the infected person’s tears through handkerchiefs, towels, and pillowcases should be avoided. Hand washing after contact will also prevent the spread. Infection caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics. (With a bacterial infection, pus will be present.) Most infections, however, are caused by viral infections and cannot be treated with antibiotics.

When do I call a doctor?

If your child has heavy pus in the eye, and does not respond to treatment within 48
hours.
If your child’s eye is quite painful.
If your child’s eyelids are very red and swollen.
If your child has blurred vision or severe light sensitivity.
If you have any other concerns.

For more information regarding Conjunctivitis, please contact your health care professional at the Cresco Medical Clinic at (563) 547-2022 or the Lime Springs Medical Clinic at (563) 566-2243.