A very common condition, Pink Eye is also known as conjunctivitis. It is associated with redness and swelling in one or both eyes and is very contagious.
Conjunctiva The conjunctiva is the effected portion of the eye when this condition arises. This is a thin mucous membrane at the surface of the eye that is exposed to the surrounding environment whenever the eye is open. Therefore it is also the most susceptible part of the eye, but is also responsible for keeping the rest of the eye lubricated through mucous and tear production.
Symptoms Knowing this, the symptoms of Pink Eye, which directly impacts the conjunctiva, make perfect sense. There will be noted redness and the eye will appear swollen in many cases. In addition, the mucous membrane will often go into overdrive, creating an excess of tears and the patient will frequently mention the feeling of something being caught in the eye. This is often a sensation associated with the swelling. When infected with Pink Eye, it is not uncommon for a person to feel the need to itch or rub the troubled area and might report a slight burning sensation when seeing Austin ophthalmologists. In addition, light sensitivity and goopy drainage may be noted.
Causes This condition is generally caused by a bacterial or viral infection that can be treated by a medical professional. However, in some cases, it can be spurred by dry eyes, excessive exposure to wind and sun, as well as airborne chemicals or smoke. In patients with frequent eye allergies, conjunctivitis is a more common occurrence. This is another reason why allergy sufferers should make frequent contact with an allergy eye doctor.
Contagious Nature As mentioned above, pinkeye is a very contagious condition that can easily pass from one person to another via direct contact. In other words, a hand that is used to rub the infected eye and then to hold another person’s hand will likely pass the infection along. Sharing washcloths, towels, sunglasses, or any other object likely to have made contact with the eye is also a good way to pass the condition on to another individual. In the case of bacterial infection, antibiotics can negate the contagious factor within twenty-four hours and symptoms will begin to improve within the same time span. However, viral infections are often more difficult to treat and may require that the patient remain at home and away from others for up to five days, or until symptoms begin to fade away.
Associated Risks Certain individuals can experience very serious consequences as a result of the pinkeye infection. Those with compromised immune systems, for instance, are likely to have trouble overcoming the condition. Those with limited or full impaired vision in one eye, people who have recently undergone eye surgery or corneal transplant in Austin, and those who wear contacts on a regular basis will also have to make special adaptations until the infection has passed. In addition, it should be noted that this and other minor eye infections can cause glaucoma specialists to delay surgery.
Broberg Eye Care
4207 James Casey St # 305
Austin, TX 78745-1193
(512) 447-6096
