Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common eye condition that causes inflammation of the thin, transparent tissue (conjunctiva) that lines the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. At Hashemi Eye Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various forms of conjunctivitis to ensure quick relief and prevent complications.

What Causes Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can occur for several reasons, including:

Viral Infections: Most cases are caused by viruses, particularly the adenovirus, which is highly contagious.
Bacterial Infections: Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, bacterial conjunctivitis can be more serious and may require antibiotic treatment.
Allergies: Seasonal allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can trigger allergic conjunctivitis.
Irritants: Exposure to smoke, chemicals, or chlorine in swimming pools can cause chemical conjunctivitis.

Visit our Eye Health page to learn more about preventing eye infections and irritation.

Common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Symptoms can vary based on the cause, but generally include:

Redness in the white part of the eye
Itching or burning sensation
Watery or thick discharge from the eye
Swollen eyelids
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam to determine the cause and proper treatment plan.

Types of Conjunctivitis

At Hashemi Eye Care, we treat all forms of conjunctivitis. Understanding the type of conjunctivitis is essential to guide the right treatment:

Viral Conjunctivitis: This form is contagious and often accompanies upper respiratory infections. Symptoms usually resolve on their own within a week or two, but supportive care, like cool compresses, can help alleviate discomfort.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This type often requires antibiotic eye drops or ointments, such as Erythromycin ointment or Tobradex, to clear the infection. Symptoms typically include thick, yellow-green discharge.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Common during allergy season, this type responds well to antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications like Loteprednol etabonates or Eysuvis.
Chemical Conjunctivitis: Caused by irritants, this type requires immediate rinsing of the eye with clean water or saline solution and a follow-up with an eye care provider.

Explore our Medication Guide for more information on the medications used to treat conjunctivitis.

How Is Conjunctivitis Diagnosed?

Our eye specialists will conduct a Comprehensive Eye Exam to determine the type of conjunctivitis. Diagnosis may involve:

A visual examination of the eye and eyelid
Analyzing discharge samples to identify bacterial or viral causes
Reviewing your medical history and allergy triggers

Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment, especially to prevent the spread of infectious forms.

Treatment Options for Conjunctivitis

Treatment depends on the type of conjunctivitis:

Viral Conjunctivitis: This usually requires supportive care, such as artificial tears and cool compresses. Although viral conjunctivitis is self-limiting, it's essential to follow hygiene practices to prevent spreading the infection.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: We typically prescribe antibiotic eye drops like Erythromycin ointment or Tobradex. For more severe infections, oral antibiotics may be necessary.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Anti-allergy medications, such as Restasis or Xiidra, can help alleviate itching and swelling. We also recommend avoiding allergens whenever possible.
Chemical Conjunctivitis: Immediate flushing with saline is essential. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drops may be prescribed to reduce irritation.

For more details on medication options, check out our Medication Guide.

Preventing Conjunctivitis

While conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, especially viral and bacterial types, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of infection:

Wash your hands regularly: Especially after touching your face or eyes.
Avoid sharing personal items: Such as towels, pillows, or makeup.
Use proper contact lens hygiene: Clean your lenses and storage cases thoroughly.
Protect your eyes from irritants: Wear goggles when swimming and avoid smoke-filled environments.

For more preventive tips, visit our Eye Health page.

When to Seek Immediate Care

In some cases, conjunctivitis can lead to more serious eye complications, such as:

Severe pain in the eyes
Sudden vision loss
Intense swelling of the eyes or face
Green or yellow discharge

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact Hashemi Eye Care immediately for emergency treatment.

FAQs About Conjunctivitis

Can I wear contact lenses if I have conjunctivitis?

It’s recommended to stop wearing contact lenses until your symptoms fully resolve. You should also disinfect your lenses or switch to a new pair after treatment.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious. It's important to avoid close contact with others, practice good hand hygiene, and avoid touching your face.

How long does conjunctivitis last?

Viral conjunctivitis typically clears up within 7 to 14 days, while bacterial conjunctivitis improves within a few days of starting antibiotics. Allergic conjunctivitis persists as long as the allergen is present.

Schedule Your Conjunctivitis Treatment Today

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of conjunctivitis, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a quick recovery and preventing the spread of infection. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or visit our Comprehensive Eye Care page for more details on our full range of services.