Conjunctivitis or pink eye is an eye condition that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin layer of tissues that covers the white area at the front of the eye. There can be various reasons for this condition. A viral or bacterial Infection, exposure to any irritant like some chemical, dirt, shampoo, smoke etc., or allergy to specific materials like pollens etc. If it is due to a viral or bacterial infection it may spread easily from one person to another. Sometimes it may appear in newborn babies, which can be dangerous and should be reported immediately to the doctor.
The symptoms of this condition vary depending on its cause. Generally, it may include redness of the white part of the eye, yellow discharge, especially stuck to eyelashes after sleep, itching in eyes, green or white discharge, burning sensation, blurred vision or excessive amount of tears.
The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on its cause. In the case of a viral infection, it has to complete its course like other viral infections. No medication is suggested for this type. It may complete its course in four to seven days. Extreme precautionary measures to be taken in this condition to avoid its spread. Wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with other, and keep your towel and other such things separate from others. Contact lens, makeup and other such things used in this condition should be thrown away. Wash with cold water to reduce irritation and itching in eyes.
Although there are many eye conditions where Lasik eye correction would benefit the patient, this condition is not curable through laser eye surgery.
If the problem is caused due to a bacterial infection, the doctor prescribes antibiotics to treat it. Eyedrops or eye ointments are also to be applied inside the eye. It usually improves within a week, although the medicine should be taken as long as prescribed by the doctor even if symptoms disappear.
If the cause of the problem is exposure to some irritant, it must be washed away immediately with cold water. The eye usually begins to improve within four hours. If the irritant is some acid or alkaline material, the person must immediately contact the doctor. Also if it is due to the allergy to some materials, one should immediately contact the doctor.
If a person experiences any of the associated symptoms should immediately visit the doctor, and avoid contact with other people to restrain its spread.