If you're experiencing itchy, red eyes, it may be a common problem known as conjunctivitis, or pink eye.
We spoke to Dallas Wiesner, Pharmacist at Sherwood Co-op in Regina, Sask., to learn what symptoms to look for.
What is pink eye and what are its symptoms?
Pink eye is inflammation of the eye, which can be of bacterial, viral or allergic origin. Based on a patient's symptoms, Wiesner explained, a pharmacist can determine the most likely cause.
Pink eye caused by bacteria often involves redness of the eye and thick yellow or green discharge and a feeling of “gluey eyes,” especially in the morning.
Pink eye caused by a virus often involves redness of the eye as well, but produces more of a watery discharge.
Pink eye of allergic origin also causes eye redness but creates significant itchiness as well as watery discharge and is typically present in both eyes. It's more commonly associated with seasonal allergy symptoms like a stuffy, runny nose.
How can pink eye be prevented?
Bacterial or viral pink eye can be prevented by good hygiene practices.
"For bacterial or viral pink eye, risk factors include exposure to someone with an active bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, use of contaminated cosmetic products or poor contact lens cleaning," said Wiesner.
Pink eye that is bacterially or virally caused is highly contagious for the first two to three days. Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes to prevent the spread of infection. Frequent hand washing is important as well.
Allergic conjunctivitis is usually caused by seasonal allergens. This type of pink eye may be prevented by avoiding the allergen. Oral antihistamines like Reactine, Claritin, Allegra or Aerius may help minimize symptoms.
How is pink eye treated?
Pink eye caused by bacteria can be treated by topical antibiotic products, with both over-the-counter and prescription options available.
Wiesner recommends using a warm compress in the morning to help unstick eyes.
"Contact lenses should be avoided until symptoms have resolved and the contacts that were worn when the infection was discovered should be discarded," he added.
Pink eye caused by allergies can be treated with various over-the-counter or prescription eye drops. Cool compresses may help with itching and swelling.
If someone has pink eye, do they need to stay home from school or work?
Bacterial or viral pink eye is highly contagious. Usually, avoiding contact with others for one to two days after starting treatment will help prevent the spread of infection.
"Patients should start to see improvement in their symptoms in the first couple days after starting treatment," said Wiesner.
Treatment usually takes five to seven days to fully resolve the infection, but viral infections may take up to three weeks to clear up.
Patients who have pink eye caused by an allergy don’t need to avoid school or work.
How can my pharmacist help?
Your pharmacist can offer advice on symptom management and help determine the most likely cause of your conjunctivitis. They can also recommend the best treatment options—either over-the-counter or prescription products, if appropriate.
When it comes to looking out for your eye health, your Co-op pharmacist is here to help.