Common colds surround us this time of year, and the same virus that gives you a cold can cause conjunctivitis or "pink eye." Like a common cold, it is extremely contagious, especially among young children, and can spread easily through your home or your child's school.
Common Symptoms
Red or "pink" eyes
Inflamed or crusty eyelids
Blurred vision
Itchy feeling in the eyes
A pus-like or watery discharge
Feeling like something is in your eyes
Extreme light sensitivity
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids.
According to Dr. Laura Perrin of the New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians, "There are different types of pinkeye, but both infectious forms, bacterial and virus, can be transmitted by touch."
Most infections go away in about a week. Pink eye can be so contagious that most schools in the United States require a note from a doctor for a child with pinkeye to return to school. Kids can usually return to school after their first 24 hours of eye drops.
Conjunctivitis - How to Get Relief
Use the drops prescribed by your eye doctor.
If your eyes are bothering you, try using a cool or warm washcloth on your eyes.
Parents can help by gently cleaning a child's eyes with warm water and cotton balls to remove any discharge coming from the eye.
Washcloths and towels used to clean or dry your eyes should go right into the laundry so no one else gets infected.