Conjunctivitis Pro Talk: Things You Need to Know

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is one of the most common eye diseases. According to the National Eye Institute, 3 million cases of pink eye occur in the U.S. each year. Vienna Eyecare Center, your trusted optometrist in Fairfax, VA, advises immediate treatment for this type of eye problem.

Causes of Pink Eye

Pink eye happens when the conjunctiva, the thin tissue inside the eyelid, becomes inflamed. This makes the blood vessels more visible, resulting in the reddish or pinkish appearance. Bacterial or viral infections are the main causes of pink eye. These types of pink eye require immediate treatment because they are contagious. Other causes of pink eye include allergens and irritants.

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Patients with pink eye experience the following symptoms:

• Itchiness or dryness
• Burning sensation
• Swelling of the white of the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Gritty feeling in the eye
• Crusting around the eyelids or eyelashes

Prevention Methods for Pink Eye

Most pink eye cases get better on their own. However, if the symptoms get worse, you should see your local eye doctor in Fairfax, VA, immediately. You should also seek treatment if you experience pink eye and have a weakened immune system. Pre-existing eye conditions can increase the risk of infections, so you should schedule an eye exam at Vienna Eyecare Center right away.

You can also practice proper hygiene to prevent pink eye from spreading. To name a few, you can wash your hands and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. You should also refrain from sharing contact lens containers, eyeglasses, and makeup. If you wear contact lenses, you should stop wearing them until your local eye doctor says so.

If you experience any signs of conjunctivitis, contact Vienna Eyecare Center immediately. We can provide the right type of eye care in Fairfax, VA, that you need to prevent the disease from spreading. We can also help treat other eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Call us today at (703) 938-7633 to learn more about our services. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.