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Conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva, which is the fine transparent tissue that lies on the eye’s white area and lines the eyelid’s interior. Also called pinkeye, children are quite susceptible to it, and it’s very contagious. The good news is that conjunctivitis is seldom serious and unlikely to harm your vision, particularly if it’s treated quickly.
At the office of Wyckoff Ophthalmology, we are experts at treating our patients who have pinkeye and helping them in all aspects of their eye health. We will fully evaluate your vision and patiently answer all of your questions. Your care and comfort are our top priorities.
Pinkeye has many causes. Some of them are viruses, bacteria, parasites, amoebas, fungi, chlorine in pools, a sexually transmitted disease (STD), and allergic reactions to eye drops, pollen, dust and smoke. Its symptoms include teary eyes, a green or white discharge, blurred vision, painful sensitivity to light, swollen lymph nodes, a feeling of itching and burning, and an emission that is dense, yellow and forms a crust over your eyelashes and eyelids.
See an ophthalmologist, who will examine your eyes and use a cotton swab to take a sample of the fluid and send it to a lab to find the bacteria or viruses that may have been the triggers. (Eyes that are red, irritated or swollen don’t always have conjunctivitis.) If an ophthalmologist isn’t readily available, see your primary care physician.
Treatment for pinkeye depends on the source. If the ailment stemmed from common-cold viruses, it will simply run its course of four to seven days. If it’s from the herpes virus, however, you may require prescription antiviral eye drops, ointment or pills. If bacteria were the source, you’ll need an antibiotic in the form of ointment or eye drops. Cases caused by an STD might require an oral antibiotic. Pinkeye caused by an irritant can be treated with an eyewash. Conjunctivitis tied to allergies improves when your allergy is treated and you avoid the allergy trigger.
Wyckoff Ophthalmology’s team is made up of friendly professionals who are eager to help you feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the very best in ophthalmic treatment. For more information about our practice and how we can assist you, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment.
By Wyckoff Ophthalmology
February 22, 2022
