Conjunctivitis Relief from Your Optometrist in Winchester, MA

Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is more common than most people realize, especially among those who suffer from eye allergies.  The first sign is sometimes a pinkish tinge affecting one or both eyes.  Fortunately, treatment from our Winchester Optical optometrist can relieve this condition.  Our practice is also pleased to serve patients in Arlington, Woburn, Lexington, and the surrounding area.

Overview of This Disorder

This condition is an inflammation or swelling of the eye’s conjunctiva.  This is the transparent tissue that lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.  Some forms of conjunctivitis are highly contagious.  The disorder occurs frequently among children.

A number of culprits are responsible for conjunctivitis.  The most common include:

• Eye allergies--reactions to smoke, chlorine, ingredients in cosmetics, pollen, and objects that touch an eye
• Infections from bacteria
• Viruses like the common cold
• Specific sexually-transmitted diseases
• Facial lotions or makeup that is contaminated

These are the most frequent symptoms:

• A gritty sensation in one or both eyes
• Itching or burning
• Discharge from the eye
• Swollen eyelids
• Significant tearing
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Eye whites with a pinkish cast

Some forms conjunctivitis disappear on their own.  However, many linked to allergies require treatment.  Our doctor diagnoses this condition by reviewing a patient’s health history, performing a state-of-the-art vision exam, and evaluating the conjunctiva and other exterior portions of the eyes.  He also examines the structures of the inner eye to make sure they remain unaffected.

Pink Eye Treatment

Treating pink eye successfully requires a combination of optometric services and home care.  Once an eye exam has resulted in this diagnosis, our doctor seeks to maximize a patient’s comfort, minimize any infection or inflammation, and prevent any contagious forms from spreading.

Conjunctivitis is typically a minor issue but can become an important vision problem.  The correct treatment depends on the type affecting the patient.  For a disorder caused by allergies, the first step is avoiding exposure to any offending substances.  Antihistamines, cool compresses, NSAIDs, and artificial tears are usually helpful, though some individuals need steroids in drop form.  Several weeks of topical antibiotics are typically effective for treating bacterial conjunctivitis. 

The viral form might require a few weeks to go away.  In the meantime, artificial tears and cool compresses deliver relief.  When a chemical substance is a cause, flushing the eye with saline is a standard therapy.  However, some patients also require topical steroid medication.

Self-care includes foregoing wearing contacts temporarily, throwing out old cosmetics, and avoiding touching either eye.  Changing bathroom linens often is also important.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Winchester Optometrist

Don’t let conjunctivitis sideline you unnecessarily.  Call us today at 781-729-4553 to schedule an appointment for an eye exam at our family-owned clinic.  We also serve Lexington, Woburn, and Arlington.  Our Winchester Optical optometrist and opticians use the latest equipment for vision care and correction and excel at personalized service to meet your eye health needs.