Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment in Edmonton

Pink eye is not considered to be a serious condition, but it can cause significant discomfort and it is a common eye disease in Canada. Though it is usually more common in kids, pink eye also affects adults, and it is known for being highly infectious.

What is Pink Eye?

The medical term for pink eye is conjunctivitis. It is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is a clear membrane located on the inner surface of our eyelids. When infected, the blood vessels located in the membrane region get swollen, giving the reddish appearance that people often refer to as pink eyes.

In most cases, pink eyes are related to viral infections, as they are typically easier to contract than other types of conjunctivitis. However, there are four types of pink eye conditions and, even though in most cases they don’t represent a serious health risk, they all need to be addressed promptly.

Viral Infection
This is the most common type of conjunctivitis, and it can be easily contracted through direct or indirect contact. Cross-infection is very common among kids in schools as the child suffering from pink eye may rub their itchy eye and have contact with other kids on the same day, making it easy for the infection to spread. Even though it can be quite uncomfortable with a sore, watery, light-sensitive eye, in most cases viral conjunctivitis don’t last more than a week and are not helped by antibiotics.

Bacterial Infection
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically needs to be addressed more urgently. Apart from being highly infectious, it can lead to more serious conditions than viral pink eyes. Moreover, when pink eye is caused by bacteria, pus might accumulate in the infected eye, which causes further discomfort to those suffering from the condition.

Allergic Pink Eye
Pink eyes can also be caused by allergic reactions, which can cause similar symptoms to those experienced with viral conjunctivitis. They are more commonly present in people that are allergic to pets, pollen, or even those who are more sensitive to dust. Though it is not considered to be a serious condition, finding out what is causing the allergic reaction can take time, making allergic pink eye a persistent issue for some people. Prescription eye drops can help short-term or long-term, as needed depending on symptoms and cause.

Chemical Pink Eye
Apart from infections, pink eyes can also be the result of exposure to other elements. Eyes can be very sensitive to certain chemicals and these substances can also cause great discomfort. For instance, the chlorine used to keep swimming pools clean can irritate the eyes of children and swimmers, which causes symptoms that are very similar to infectious conjunctivitis. In most cases, symptoms go away after flushing the irritated eye.

The Symptoms of Pink Eye

The symptoms of pink eye may vary slightly depending on the type of conjunctivitis or the severity of the infection, but general signs include:

Redness in the eye
Swollen eyelids
Itchiness
Excessive tearing
Mild sensitivity to light
Yellow drainage from the eye
Feeling of sticky eyelashes
Mild pain and discomfort

What Are the Causes of Pink Eye?

Conjunctivitis is commonly caused by either viruses or bacteria. Viral conjunctivitis can also be associated with other infections, which makes contamination fairly easy. It is known that people who have direct contact with those who are suffering from conjunctivitis can be easily infected, but coughing and sneezing can also spread the viral infection due to its association with common cold. Though relatively less common, pink eyes can be the result of an allergy or exposure to chemicals. These are not infectious and are generally easier to treat.

How Can Pink Eye Be Treated?

Viral conjunctivitis is more easily spread. It will generally go away after a couple of days to a week and in most cases no medicine is necessary. Bacterial conjunctivitis, however, can be dangerous and need to be tackled as soon as possible. This type of infection can rarely lead to more serious problems which may result in permanent eye damage. Generally, doctors will prescribe antibiotics to control the infection. If properly treated, it usually lasts less than a week.

Pink Eye Treatment in Edmonton

If you think you are suffering from pink eye and are looking for professional help, Optometrists’ Clinic Inc is here for you. This type of medical visit to your optometrist is covered by Alberta Health Care. Be it an allergic reaction, a viral or bacterial infection, or even exposure to chemicals, our experienced eye doctors will be able to address the problem promptly with the suitable treatment. Schedule an appointment at one of our clinics in Edmonton, Leduc or Westlock.