Definition:

Conjunctivitis or pink eye refers to the inflammation of transparent membrane that lines the eyelids and the sclera (the white part of eyeball), usually caused by viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction.

The most common symptoms include redness, itchiness, wateriness of one or both eyes as well as yellowish-green discharge which may form a crust during the night.

• A health provider should be consulted if eye symptoms occur in infants before 2 months of age, if any injuries to eyes are suspected, if the pain is severe, if the vision is affected, if pupils are bulging, if there are other symptoms including high fever and ear pain or if the symptoms do not improve in two weeks, etc.
• Other more serious causes of conjunctivitis may include physical injuries, chemical splash in the eye, foreign body in the eye, blocked tear ducts in newborns etc.
• Allergic conjunctivitis, mostly caused by environmental allergies such as pollens, may be associated with elevated levels of antibody Ig E and histamine and accompany other symptoms of allergic disease such as asthma, eczema etc. Allergic conjunctivitis may also be a manifestation of hidden food allergies.

Treatment:

Environment/Lifestyle/Diet

• Wash crusty eyes discharge and eyelashes with warm water or, sterile saline
• Avoid first and secondhand smoke exposure
• Avoid allergens
• Wash hands frequently, and do not share eye makeup

Other Treatments

Specific medications and supplements, tailored to each patient, can help in the treatment of this condition.

Please contact us for an appointment to discuss appropriate evaluation and treatment.