Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options in Edmonton
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. It is one of the most frequently diagnosed eye conditions in Edmonton and is often highly contagious.
The good news? Pink eye is easy to diagnose and, in most cases, simple to treat. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, an eye exam in Edmonton can quickly determine the type of conjunctivitis and the best course of treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Pink Eye
Pink eye symptoms can vary based on the type and severity of the condition. The most common symptoms include:
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Watery or teary eyes
- Blurry vision
- Itchy, irritated, or burning eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Thick or watery eye discharge (yellow, white, or green)
- Swollen lymph nodes (in some cases)
If you are experiencing severe discomfort, vision changes, or persistent symptoms, it is important to see an Edmonton optometrist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Pink Eye
Pink eye is not a single condition but rather an umbrella term for different types of conjunctivitis. Your Edmonton optometrist will diagnose pink eye as one of the following:
1. Viral Conjunctivitis (Most Common)
- Caused by viruses, often the same ones responsible for colds.
- Highly contagious and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
- Symptoms: Watery eyes, redness, irritation, and clear or white discharge.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
- Caused by bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Highly contagious and spreads through contact with contaminated hands, towels, or eye makeup.
- Symptoms: Thick, yellow or green discharge, swollen eyelids, and crusting around the eyes, especially after sleeping.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Caused by allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold.
- Not contagious and often linked to seasonal allergies.
- Symptoms: Itchy, red, watery eyes, along with sneezing, runny nose, or other allergy symptoms.
4. Irritant or Toxic Conjunctivitis
- Caused by exposure to chemicals, smoke, air pollution, chlorine, or foreign objects like dust or sand.
- Not contagious but can cause discomfort and inflammation.
- Symptoms: Redness, burning, irritation, and watery discharge.
Diagnosis and Treatment: What to Expect from Your Eye Exam in Edmonton
An optometrist in Edmonton can easily diagnose pink eye by performing a visual examination and asking about your symptoms. In some cases, a swab sample may be taken to determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial.
Treatment Options Based on the Type of Pink Eye
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis → Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed to speed up recovery and prevent spreading.
- Viral Conjunctivitis → Like the common cold, viral pink eye must run its course. Cool compresses and artificial tears can help relieve symptoms.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis → Antihistamines (oral or eye drops) can reduce itching and inflammation.
- Irritant Conjunctivitis → The eye should be flushed with clean water or saline to remove the irritant.
Is Pink Eye Contagious? How to Prevent Spreading It
Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and spread through direct or indirect contact. Follow these tips to prevent transmission:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
- Do not share towels, pillowcases, or makeup.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like door handles, phones, and computer keyboards.
- Keep children with pink eye home from school or daycare until cleared by a doctor.
See an Eye Doctor in Edmonton for Pink Eye Treatment
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, don’t wait for it to clear up on its own—especially if symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days. An Edmonton optometrist at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. can diagnose your condition and provide the best treatment plan.
Schedule an eye exam in Edmonton today to get relief from pink eye and protect your vision. Contact Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. at one of our convenient locations.
