Pink Eye Treatment from Our Indianapolis and Fishers, IN Optometrist
The medical name for pink eye is conjunctivitis. Most people associate this condition with groups of children, but adults also get it. Our optometrists at Progressive Eyecare & Eyewear professionally treat pink eye at both our Indianapolis and Fishers offices.
Overview of Conjunctivitis
The primary culprits responsible for conjunctivitis are bacteria, allergens, and viruses. Our eye doctors note that infectious pink eye can be extremely contagious.
The most common sign of conjunctivitis is the pink color of the affected eye. This might occur even before discomfort. Other symptoms our patients experience include:
- A sensation of grittiness
- Light sensitivity
- Itching or burning eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Discharge from an eye
- Excessive tearing
The most likely ways to get pink eye include:
- Bacterial infections
- Skin products that are contaminated
- Objects that touch the eye
- Certain sexually transmitted diseases
- Viruses like the one that causes the common cold
- Allergic responses to pollen and irritants in cosmetics
Treatment for Pink Eye
It is important that a newborn with pink eye symptoms visit an eye doctor immediately. Our team seeks to both stop contagious outbreaks of pink eye from spreading and to bring relief to our patients. Achieving this requires patients to practice prescribed self-care at home in addition to receiving professional intervention.
The path to relief from conjunctivitis starts with an eye exam. Diagnosing conjunctivitis at an early stage can prevent escalating problems. One universal step in treating pink eye is for patients to avoid touching their eyes. The best treatment for a case of pink eye depends on the cause of the condition.
Antibiotic drops or antibiotic ointment are standard treatment for bacterial infections that cause pink eye. Artificial tears plus cool compresses for several weeks benefit patients with a viral infection.
When chemical exposure is the cause of pink eye, the eyes must be flushed. Some individuals benefit from a topical steroid. Cool compresses, artificial tears, and antihistamines are helpful for allergy-based conjunctivitis.
Schedule an Eye Exam with Our Optometrist in Indianapolis or Fishers
At Progressive Eyecare & Eyewear our team uses advanced diagnostic technology paired with years of experience to provide the best eye care for all our patients. Whether you need new prescription eyewear, assistance with vision abnormalities, or treatment for pink eye, the path to the best vision possible starts with an eye exam from our optometrists. Take a moment to call us today at (317) 595-8855 to schedule an appointment for your next vision checkup at our convenient Indianapolis or Fishers location.