Best Way to Treat Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye due to the appearance of the eye, is an inflammation of the eye that affects the outer layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. This infection can be viral or bacterial, but pink eye can also be caused by an allergic reaction. While conjunctivitis can be painful and cause blurred vision, redness, tearing and itching, it is generally treatable with no serious long-lasting effects.

Viral

• To relieve pain and discomfort, a warm compress can be applied to the affected eye(s). 


• Antibiotics cannot be used for a viral infection, so it is best to let the infection run its course. The infection should clear up on its own in one to three weeks. Artificial tears can be used to relieve some of the discomfort.


• Sometimes the herpes virus can cause pink eye. This is a very serious medical condition and can be treated with antiviral eye drops, ointments and oral medications.

Bacterial

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are usually prescribed for a bacterial case of pink eye. With the use of medications, the infection should clear up within a few days  Be sure to continue taking the medication for the prescribed amount of time even if you see rapid results. This is important to prevent the infection from returning.    


• Warm compresses can be used to ease tenderness and pain.

Allergic

• Remove the allergen if possible, or remove the affected person from the area containing the allergen. The symptoms should begin to dissipate on their own once the source of the irritation is removed.


• Unlike using a warm compress for viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, a cold compress should be used if the cause is an allergic reaction.

Note that pink eye can easily be spread from one eye to the other. Avoid wearing eye makeup, rubbing your eyes, or using the same compress on both eyes. If you are a contact lens wearer, do not wear your lenses when you have conjunctivitis. If possible, buy new eye makeup and use a new pair of lenses when your symptoms have completely gone away.