Not so Pretty in Pink Eye

Not so Pretty in Pink Eye

It’s back to school time for kids. This means back to work for many bacteria and viruses like conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. This common medical condition is around all year, but since it can spread so easily it’s more common when school is back is session and we are seeing a lot of it at the Immediate Care Center at the Loyola Center for Health at Burr Ridge.

Conjunctivitis involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is a very thin membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and white portion of the eye. 

Contrary to popular belief pink eye is not always due to a bacterial infection.  It can also be caused by viruses, allergens and irritants. These types of conjunctivitis will typically resolve spontaneously without additional treatment.

Bacterial conjunctivitis can be the result of infection from one of several bacterial organisms.  Transmission is from person to person contact, secretions from an affected person or infected surfaces. 

Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes eye redness, irritation, pain and/or thick discolored drainage initially in one eye.  Very commonly patients complain of the affected eyelids being “stuck” shut upon awakening due to drainage.  

Unfortunately, bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious!  It can often affect an entire classroom or household.  So, if you suspect you have this type of infection it’s best to see your medical provider as soon as possible.

Your provider will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to treat your infection. 

The following tips are useful when dealing with pink eye:

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 15-20 seconds with warm soapy water.
• Use alcohol sanitizer when water and soap are not available to clean your hands.
• Avoid eye make-up during an infection and discard any used eye make-up as it is likely contaminated. 
• Remove contact lenses and wear glasses until the infection is cleared.
• Thoroughly clean your contact lens case and discard disposable contacts.
• Avoid touching your eyes with your fingers.  Conjunctivitis is commonly transmitted from one eye to the other this way.
• Avoid school and/or work until you have had at least 24 hours of antibiotic treatment.