Pink Eye

Pink eye is an eye problem that causes your eyes to turn pink or red. It's a condition that affects both children and adults, but it's common among school-aged children. Pink eye is extremely uncomfortable and frustrating, especially to kids who have never experienced it before. Fortunately, pink eye is easily treatable as long as you seek proper eye care from an eye doctor. At SPEX Eye Care in Seattle, WA, our optometry team diagnoses and treats pink eye to ensure that your eye health and vision are at their best.

What Is Pink Eye?

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is inflammation of the white covering of the eye and the inner part of your eyelid known as the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is usually clear, but it contains blood vessels on the sclera of the eye. When the inflammation occurs, the blood vessels dilate, resulting in pink eye.

Causes of Pink Eye

Pink eye is due to inflammation of the blood vessels. The causes of inflammation include:  

• Viruses  
• Bacteria, such as Hemophilus influenzas and Pseudomonas aeruginosa  
• Allergens, such as pollen, molds, or any substances that trigger an allergic reaction  
• Irritating products like cosmetics, shampoos, dirt, contact lenses, pool chlorine, and smoke  
• Foreign object in your eye

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Pink eye does not affect your sight. However, it has some annoying and unpleasant symptoms, which include:  

• Irritation, burning sensation, or itchiness in your eyes
• Noticeable red or pink color around or in your eyes
• Watery eyes
• Discharge or mucus in the eyes
• Urge to touch or rub your eyes
• Difficulty or discomfort using contact lenses
• Swollen or puffy eyelids Increased sensitivity to light

Treatment and Prevention of Pink Eye

Since pink eye has several causes, our eye doctor will prescribe treatment based on the reason. If the cause is bacteria, we may recommend antibiotics, eye drops, or drugs for allergies. The best way to prevent pink eye is by practicing proper hygiene habits like washing your hands regularly.

Visit Our Optometrist in Seattle, WA for Pink Eye Treatment

If you have symptoms of pink eye, visit us at SPEX Eye Care. Our eye doctor will provide the proper treatment. Call us today to schedule an appointment.