Red, irritated eyes can leave you wondering what caused them and what you should do about them. Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva and can have several causes. Three common types are viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis. Although they can look similar, certain symptoms can help distinguish one type from another.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our board-certified ophthalmologists provide comprehensive eye care in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ. Our team includes Dr. Jay L. Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong, along with skilled optometrists experienced in diagnosing and managing a wide range of eye conditions.

Understanding the Different Types of Conjunctivitis

Viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis share some common symptoms, but understanding their differences can help you know what to look for:

1. Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is a common infectious form of pink eye. It often causes redness, irritation, tearing, and watery discharge. Some people may also have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection around the same time.

Because viral conjunctivitis can spread through contact with contaminated hands and personal items, good hygiene is particularly important. An eye doctor can examine your eyes and guide appropriate care.

2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis can also cause red, irritated eyes. One notable difference is that the discharge may be thicker or mucus-like. Eyelids that stick together, particularly after sleeping, can also suggest a bacterial cause.

Since viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can have similar symptoms, it may be difficult to determine the cause by appearance alone. A professional eye examination can help clarify the diagnosis and guide suitable care.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva reacts to an allergen rather than an infection. It commonly affects both eyes and is especially associated with itching, redness, watering, and swelling.

Seasonal allergens such as pollen may contribute to symptoms. Management may include limiting exposure to known allergens and following your doctor’s eye care recommendations.

Find Conjunctivitis Care in Scottsdale, AZ

Knowing the types of conjunctivitis can help you better understand what may be behind red, itchy, or watery eyes, but similar symptoms can make self-diagnosis difficult. Schwartz Laser Eye Center can evaluate your eyes, determine the likely cause, and discuss appropriate care.

To schedule an eye examination at our Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa location, call (480) 483-3937 or 1(888) 553-3937.

The post 3 Types of Conjunctivitis: Viral, Bacterial, and Allergic appeared first on Schwartz Laser.

Pink Eye Causes

Pink eye can be the result of several factors, including:

Bacteria: Bacterial conjunctivitis is when the eyes are exposed to certain types of bacteria like Streptococcus pneumonia, typically via unclean hands or using contaminated products near the eyes. When pink eye is caused by bacteria, it is highly contagious.

Viruses: Viruses that are associated with conditions like colds or sinus infections can also cause pink eye. As with bacteria, virus-related pink eye can easily be spread from you to others.

Allergens: Exposure to dust, pollen, mold, or other similar substances can lead to irritation or inflammation in one or both eyes.

Certain substances: Irritating chemicals, like cosmetics or pool chlorine, can leave you at risk of developing an eye infection.

Symptoms

If you have any of the following symptoms, it is time to visit a qualified eye professional, such as a member of the team at Schwartz Laser, for diagnosis and treatment:

• Eye redness near the eyelid rim
• Redness in the white part of your eyes
• Thick, yellowish, green, or white secretions that coat the eyelashes, indicating infection
• Foreign object sensation in the eyes
• Eye irritation or burning
• Light sensitivity
• Swollen eyelids

Pink Eye Treatment

Pink eye should first be diagnosed with an eye examination, which also helps our doctors determine its cause and informs treatment. Pink eye caused by bacteria is treated with antibiotics, which may come in the form of eye drops or a pill.

How Contagious is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is well-known for being contagious and can be spread in many ways, including:

• Touching surfaces that contain bacteria or viruses before rubbing or touching your eye area.
• Shaking hands with someone after touching your eyes. If that person also touches their eyes, they could develop pink eye.
• Using contaminated makeup. Sharing contaminated makeup or products that are applied near the eyes, such as face cream, can increase the spread of pink eye.

Schedule an Appointment

While pink eye is usually a minor infection, it can indicate a more serious issue. Protect your eye health and book an appointment with our highly skilled doctors today.

The post Do I Have Pink Eye? How to Spot the Signs of Conjunctivitis appeared first on Schwartz Laser.