Pink eye, which is also called conjunctivitis, involves the inflammation of the transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye. If you or your child are suffering from pink eye, you may want to know that there are different types of pink eye, and treatment may be different in each case.
Pink Eye Treatments
Bacterial pink eye—This is the most common form of pink eye. It is caused by bacteria infections in the eye, and this is most likely due to contact with someone else who has pink eye, or it could also be due to exposure to contaminated surfaces. Because this is a bacterial infection, antibiotics will resolve the issue, and these usually come in the form of eye drops.
Viral pink eye—This form of pink eye is very contagious, as just a sneeze or a cough can transfer the virus. Unlike bacterial pink eye, antibiotic eye drops will not resolve this form of pink eye but can help to reduce symptoms. Luckily, it will simply go away on its own and typically in a fairly short period of time, under one week. The third and the fifth day of viral pink eye are often the worst days, but after these, the eye will improve on its own.
Allergic pink eye—Caused by eye allergies, allergic pink eye is also very common. Eye allergies to pollen, certain animals, or dust mites can bring on this form of pink eye, and the most common symptom is that your eyes will itch. In this case, eye drops with antihistamines can help to control allergic pink eye.
Pink eye treatments can vary based on the form of pink eye you are suffering from. To learn more about our treatments, or to schedule an appointment at Valley Eyecare Center, call (602) 955-2700, or visit our website.
