Conjunctivitis (or more commonly, Pink Eye) is a contagious inflammation of the outermost layer of the eye called Conjunctiva. This is most commonly due to an infection (either viral or bacterial) or an allergic reaction. Symptoms include a red eye, swelling, watering of the eyes. Bacterial conjunctivitis will include a discharge.
Best method to prevent pink eye is to maintain good hygiene and avoid rubbing your eyes. Never share contacts and wash hands frequently. If you are near someone with conjunctivitis, make sure to use precaution and wash surfaces and hands. Remove contacts before swimming and wear goggles to prevent trapping bacteria in your eye.
Treatment vary depending on the kind of pink eye. Viral conjunctivitis will go away with no treatment. Symptoms can be releived by applying a cold wet towel several times a day. Due to the contagiousness, do not let others use this towel. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with antibiotics. Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with allergy medications or allergy eye drops.
Should you contract pink eye, our doctors at AFC Braintree can help diagnose and treat it. Visit our Walk-In Clinic today at 485 Granite St in Braintree or call us at 781-848-2273.
