When the white of your eye turns pink or red, and you experience a gritty, itchy sensation when you blink, you may have an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the eyelids and covers much of the eyeball.
Although allergies or environmental irritants can enlarge the tiny blood vessels of the conjunctiva (causing redness, and increased sensitivity to light, and watery or pus-like discharge), the problem is also often caused by bacteria or viral infections- a condition commonly known as “pinkeye.” Although the problem is usually harmless, it should be treated early because conjunctivitis is extremely contagious.
Avoiding Conjunctivitis
These hints should help you avoid getting a conjunctivitis infection from another person or from passing it on if you do get it.
Wash your hand after contact with someone who has conjunctivitis.
Don’t use anyone else’s handkerchiefs, washcloths, or towels, and don’t let anyone else use yours.
Do not share eye cosmetics or makeup applicators.
Don’t smoke, and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke; smoke may cause or aggravate conjunctivitis.
Coping with Conjunctivitis
Follow this advice:
- Apply cool compresses to the inflamed eye to help soothe the discomfort.
- Notify your family physician or ophthalmologist. If your conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, your doctor might prescribe antibiotic eye drops to help clear up the problem. Viral conjunctivitis, which might be accompanied by other symptoms such as a sore throat or runny nose, usually clears up on its own within two weeks.
