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Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Slideshow: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatments
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What Is Pinkeye?
Pinkeye -- also called conjunctivitis -- is redness and inflammation of the clear membranes covering the whites of the eyes and the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids. Pinkeye is most often caused by a virus or by a bacterial infection, although allergies, toxic agents, and underlying diseases can also play a role.
Is Pinkeye Contagious?
Viral and bacterial pinkeye are extremely contagious. It’s easily spread through poor hand washing or by sharing an object (like a towel) with someone who has it. It can also spread through coughing and sneezing. Kids diagnosed with pinkeye should stay out of school or day care for a short period of time. Allergic pinkeye (caused by seasonal pollens, animal dander, cosmetics, and perfumes) and chemical pinkeye (from toxic chemicals or liquids, including bleach and furniture polish) are not contagious.
Symptom: Swollen, Red Eyelids
The symptoms of bacterial pinkeye usually affect both eyes. Viral pinkeye symptoms typically begin in one eye and involve the other eye within a few days. Symptoms of allergic pinkeye usually involve both eyes. Swelling of the eyelids is most common with bacterial and allergic pinkeye.
When Pinkeye Means Something More
Persistent pinkeye can be a sign of an underlying illness in the body. Most often these are rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). Pinkeye is also seen in Kawasaki disease (a rare disease associated with fever in infants and young children) and certain inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Treating Pinkeye
Bacterial pinkeye is treated with antibiotic eyedrops, ointment, or pills to
clear the infection. Viral pinkeye has no treatment -- you just have to let the
virus run its course, which is usually four to seven days. Allergic pinkeye
symptoms should improve once the allergen is removed and the allergy itself is
treated. Chemical pinkeye requires prompt washing of the affected eye(s) for
five minutes and an immediate call to the doctor.
Easing Symptoms
To reduce pain and to remove the discharge of bacterial or viral pinkeye, use a cold or warm compress on the eyes. Make sure to use a different washcloth for each eye to prevent spreading any infection. And use clean washcloths each time. Clean the eye from drainage by wiping from the inside to the outside of the eye area. For allergic pinkeye, an antihistamine may be used to alleviate symptoms.
Preventing Its Spread
If you or your child has infectious pinkeye, avoid touching the eye area, and wash your hands frequently, particularly after applying medications to the area. Never share towels or handkerchiefs, and throw away tissues after each use. Change linens and towels daily. Disinfect all surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and doorknobs. Throw away any makeup used while infected.
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Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on January 29, 2009
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REFERENCES:
MedicineNet.
WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic:
"Conjunctivitis | Pinkeye."
WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic:
"Allergies: Allergy Conjunctivitis."
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise: "Pinkeye - Topic
Overview."
WebMD Medical Reference: "Understanding Pinkeye - Diagnosis &
Treatment."
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information:
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
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