Pink Eye Treatment Specialist Serving Eastgate, Cincinnati OH

Conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye, is an eye infection that can be caused by the following:

• Virus
• Bacteria
• Blocked tear duct (infants)
• Foreign object in the eye
• Allergies
• Chemical splash

The type of conjunctivitis you have will inevitably determine the type of treatment you’ll need. There are four many types including viral conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and irritation caused conjunctivitis.

Viral Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be caused by a plethora of different viruses including Covid-19, the common cold, herpes simplex virus, and varicella-zoster virus. In the case of viral conjunctivitis, you will likely experience the symptoms of a respiratory illness as well. Viral conjunctivitis is extremely contagious and is often spread at schools and daycare centers.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by the following bacterias: streptococcus pneumonia, moraxella catarrhalis, chlamydia trachomatis, neisseria gonorrhea, staphylococcus aureus, and haemophilus influenza. Similar to viral conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious and can spread to either one or both eyes.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes and is caused by an increase in an antibody known as immunoglobulin E. This antibody can cause the mucous lining in your eye to release histamines which in turn, causes symptoms of pink eye. Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms include red eyes, inflammation, nasal discharge, eye discharge, sneezing, itchy eyes, and burning.

Irritation Caused Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis caused by irritation may cause symptoms like mucous discharge, watery eyes, and irritation. Chemical splashes will need to be resolved through flushing and cleansing. A foreign object in your eye that causes conjunctivitis can be small or large. Bigger objects need to be removed by a medical professional. A smaller object can be removed at home, but if the infection persists, you’ll need to see your doctor. This will prevent any potential scratches and permanent eye damage.

Pink eye symptoms are quite noticeable and can be caught on very early in the infection. Symptoms of conjunctivitis may include:

• Pink or red eye color
• Itchiness
• Eye discharge
• Excessive tearing
• Gritty feeling in eyes
• Blurry eyesight
• Burning eyes
• Swelling of the conjunctiva
• Light sensitivity

Once you notice any symptoms of an eye infection, call your doctor or go to a walk-in clinic. Depending on the cause, you may need antibiotics, antiviral medication, allergy medications, or even something removed from your eyes such as a foreign object or any chemicals. Although your infection will likely be cleared up within 1 to 2 weeks, more serious infections can take up to a month to clear. Longer, severe eye infections can be an indicator of an underlying condition or can cause permanent vision loss. See a doctor to prevent your conjunctivitis from becoming this bad. If you or your child is suffering from pink eye, come visit our walk-in clinic with no appointment necessary. Whether you’re an existing patient or a new patient, you can give us a call and we’ll help you get back to normal life. Pink eye can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, make sure you seek proper medical attention at Eastside Urgent Care. Walk-in or contact to schedule a same-day appointment to avoid wait time. Visit us at 872 Ohio Pike Cincinnati, OH 45245. We serve patients from Cincinnati OH, Covedale OH, Delhi OH, St Bernard OH, Wilders KY, and Elmwood Place OH.