Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common condition that results in red, irritated eyes. Though pink eye can be uncomfortable, it is usually not serious and will resolve on its own within two to three weeks. In some cases, pink eye may be caused by a more serious condition and will require treatment from an eye doctor.
At Chapel Hill Ophthalmology, our experienced eye doctors can provide the treatment you need to get relief from pink eye symptoms. We offer a variety of treatments depending on the cause of your pink eye, and we will work with you to find a treatment that is right for you.
What Causes Pink Eye?
The most common cause of pink eye is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. Bacteria can also cause pink eye, though this is less common. Allergies, irritants, and certain medical conditions can also lead to conjunctivitis.
Viral pink eye is highly contagious and can be spread through coughing and sneezing. Bacterial pink eye is also contagious and can be passed through contact with contaminated surfaces or fluids from the infected person's nose or mouth. Allergic pink eye is not contagious.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
The most obvious symptom of pink eye is redness in the whites of the eyes. However, other symptoms may include itchiness, burning, increased tearing, crusting around the eyelids, and swollen lymph nodes near the ear.
Searching for an "Ophthalmologist near Me?"
If you are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, contact your local eye doctor (ophthalmologist near me) for an evaluation. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions and diseases. At Chapel Hill Ophthalmology, our board-certified ophthalmologists provide comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. We offer a full range of services, from routine eye exams to the treatment of complex conditions.
Treatment for Pink Eye
In most cases, pink eye will improve on its own within two to three weeks regardless of treatment. However, there are several things you can do to ease your symptoms in the meantime. These include applying a warm compress to the affected eye several times per day, using artificial tears to lubricate dry eyes, and avoiding touching or rubbing your eyes.
If allergic conjunctivitis is the cause of your symptoms, avoiding allergens and taking oral antihistamines may help provide relief.
If your symptoms are severe or if they do not improve within two weeks, see an ophthalmologist in Chapel Hill, NC, for further evaluation and treatment. Ocular allergies may require prescription eye drops while bacterial conjunctivitis will likely require antibiotics in the form of eye drops or pills.
In rare cases where conjunctivitis does not respond to standard treatments, additional testing may be necessary to rule out more serious conditions such as uveitis or keratitis.
Contact Our Ophthalmologist in Chapel Hill, NC
If you are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, call Chapel Hill Ophthalmology in Chapel Hill, NC, today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert ophthalmologists. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and offer individualized treatment recommendations based on the cause of your condition. Don't suffer from irritation and discomfort any longer. Contact us today.