Red Eye

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis or “sore eyes” as we commonly call it, is a condition where the outer coat of the eye is swollen or inflamed. The eyes look pink or red and may have clear or yellowish discharge. Symptoms may include burning, irritation, discharge, and crusting of the lashes.

What causes conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.

How can you differentiate between an infectious conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis?

Infectious conjunctivitis can be spread easily from person to person. This happens when you touch your eye after coming into contact with contaminated items like towels, handkerchiefs, and pillows. Abundant, yellowish discharge is usually present.  

Allergic conjunctivitis can make your eye very itchy and swollen, making it appear like there is water underneath your conjunctiva. It also worsens when you are exposed to allergens. Allergens vary from person to person but the common ones include dust, pollen, animal hair, or feathers. It is accompanied by scanty, white, sticky discharge.

How is conjunctivitis treated?

Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic drops or ointment.

Using the medication for the fully prescribed duration is necessary to prevent recurrence.

Viral conjunctivitis does not respond to antibiotics and given time, will get better even without treatment. Cold compresses and anti-inflammatory drops will help relieve discomfort but will not shorten the duration of the disease. Pink eye caused by allergies may respond to anti-inflammatory drops and cold compresses.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are both contagious.

How can I prevent conjunctivitis from spreading?

- Hand washing is the most important preventive measure.

- Always avoid touching your eyes or facial area, especially if you have been exposed to anyone

with infectious conjunctivitis.

- For contact lens wearers, hand washing is especially important, before and after putting on your lenses. Disinfecting and disposing lenses on schedule is also recommended.  Never store your lenses in a solution other than the commercially prepared solutions.

- Do not share towels, pillows or sheets with those with infectious conjunctivitis.

- If you have a family member with an infection, disinfect the areas in the house commonly touched, such as door knobs, telephones, and remote controls.

Will there be any permanent effect on vision with conjunctivitis?

Most infections will clear without complications.   Any neglected infection can result in secondary vision problems. Viral eye infections, especially herpes, can affect vision.

Does a red eye always mean infection?

No, sometimes it can indicate other eye problems including allergy, foreign body, contact lens reaction, inflammation or glaucoma.  If there is severe pain, heaviness and sensitivity to light, it is important to rule out these other serious causes of red eye and get professional eye care immediately.

In all cases of red eye, it is best to see your ophthalmologist.  He will be able to discuss with you the reasons for your symptoms and the best course of treatment.

Choosing your Ophthalmologist·

It is important that you choose your ophthalmologist well.

The Medical City is a JCI accredited institution with a complete roster of Board Certified Ophthalmologists and members of the different subspecialties.

The Medical City offers complete eye diagnostics as well as surgical services.

Please call (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 and ask Hospital Information or The TMC Eye Center for appointment and schedule details.

Note: This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment.   If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.

For any inquiries or if you would want to seek consult, please call:

EYE CENTER

Tel. No. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 Ext. 6252

CENTER FOR PATIENT PARTNERSHIP

Tel. No. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 Ext. 6444