When my little ones were two years old, they brought home the dreaded strep throat from daycare. Just a few days later, I found both of them awake with their eyes stuck shut. It was clear they were suffering from pinkeye.
They displayed all the usual signs: red, swollen eyes, increased discharge, and they were complaining about itchiness, burning sensations, and pain. With my background of having two eye doctors in the family, I knew that delaying a doctor’s visit was not an option.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eye infections can escalate quickly in children, so it’s crucial for a doctor to assess any eye infection promptly. Pinkeye can stem from various causes, including allergies, irritants, or viral infections, often appearing alongside colds or respiratory infections. If either you or your child have COVID symptoms in addition to pinkeye signs, it’s advisable to seek medical advice due to the potential for virus transmission through eye secretions.
If the pinkeye is bacterial, like in my children’s case, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops to help reduce the duration of the infection and alleviate discomfort. However, bacterial pinkeye usually clears up on its own within one to two weeks, raising the question of whether antibiotic prescriptions are overly common. A study from 2016 in Ophthalmology revealed that 60% of patients received antibiotics when they might not have needed them. Dr. Joshua Stein, a study co-author, mentioned that some doctors prescribe antibiotics just to be safe. He advises patients to discuss their doctor’s level of certainty regarding a bacterial infection.
At-Home Remedies
For at-home remedies, consider:
- Applying warm or cool compresses to the affected eye (clean, damp washcloths can be very effective).
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary.
- Consulting your doctor about lubricating eye drops available without a prescription.
- Taking allergy medications if allergies are the cause of the conjunctivitis.
To prevent spreading the infection, wash hands after touching infected eyes, launder pillowcases and sheets daily, and clean glasses often. Those with pinkeye should stay at home if symptomatic or feverish.
It’s important to educate children on how pinkeye spreads. Ensure they use fresh contacts, avoid sharing makeup, refrain from touching their eyes, and wash their hands frequently. Infected individuals should not:
- Wear contact lenses.
- Share anything that touches their eyes.
- Use redness-reducing eye drops.
- Reuse old makeup.
- Apply anything to the eye that hasn’t been approved by a physician.
When in doubt, it’s wise to consult your ophthalmologist or primary care doctor to determine the best treatment approach for pinkeye. Fortunately, with proper care, you can expect to be back to your normal self in about two weeks or less. For further information on related topics, check out this resource on congenital conditions here and another authoritative source here. For pregnancy and home insemination guidance, visit this excellent resource here.
Summary:
Pinkeye is a common condition, particularly in children, with various causes including bacteria, viruses, and allergies. While it often resolves on its own, consulting a doctor is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. At-home remedies, hygiene practices, and education about the condition can help manage symptoms and prevent spreading the infection.
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