Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a very common eye infection that easily spreads from person to person. It is especially common in children, however, it can affect anyone. Pink eye is an infection of the conjunctiva lining in the eye and can be caused by many different viruses and irritants. Bacteria infections are one of the most common causes of pink eye. Pink eye can be very painful and often causes redness and swelling around the eye, which is why it is nicknamed pink eye. Keep reading to learn more about how you get pink eye, what causes it, and how to treat it.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye, AFC Urgent Care Braintree can help. Our walk-in clinic offers patients near Braintree, MA, with same-day health care available with no appointment needed. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to provide excellent care for a variety of common illnesses, including pink eye. Walk into the clinic today.
Is Chlorine Bad For Your Eyes?
Chlorine is a disinfectant added to many swimming pools to help keep bacteria growth and algae blooms at bay in swimming pools. Not only does this keep the pool nice and clean, but it also helps keep the water clear. Chlorine is a very powerful chemical, however, it is very diluted when used in swimming pools. Because of this, opening your eyes when there is chlorine in the water can be damaging to your eyes and cause irritation. It is recommended that you do not open your eyes for long periods of time in swimming pools to avoid damage caused by chlorine exposure. However, occasional chlorine exposure does not pose a significant risk to your eyes. Chlorine is a disinfectant, so it helps reduce the spread of germs in pools meaning that it should help prevent pink eye from traveling in pools. However, you may experience some redness and dryness in the eye after exposure to chlorine.
How Does Pink Eye Spread?
If pink eye is not contracted from chlorine in pools, how does pink eye spread? Pink eye is an infection that can be caused by a variety of different irritants. Bacterial infections are the most commonly known cause of pink eye, however, viruses and allergens like pollen can both also lead to pink eye. Generally speaking, your eye needs to come into direct contact with an irritant to develop pink eye. Pink eye can spread easily between children who often touch objects in school or daycare without proper hygiene practices.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
Pink eye is an infection in the conjunctiva of the eye. It tends to cause severe irritation in the eye and can be very uncomfortable. It is important to know the signs of pink eye so that you can seek immediate medical care for treatment. Medicated eye drops are sometimes necessary to clear the infection.
Symptoms of pink eye include:
- Itchiness in eye
- Redness in eye
- Pain and swelling in the eye
- Feeling like there is something in your eye
- Sensitivity to light
Visit AFC Urgent Care Braintree for Same-Day Pink Eye Diagnosis & Treatment
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of pink eye, it is important to seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Braintree, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide same-day care for pink eyes. Our board-certified medical providers are able to provide quality care for the whole family, all without having to book an appointment. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, or schedule your visit online.
