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Pink Eye Treatment

The effectiveness of pink eye treatment depends on the type and cause of the disease. Conjunctivitis is an infection of the lining of the eye, which causes inflammation, swelling, and slight redness, hence the term "pink" eye. Most people have had the disorder at one time or another; and waking up with a red, seeping orb with crusty discharge is pretty common. Anyone can get the infection, from infants to senior adults; but the remedy depends largely on how the disease is contracted. At the first sign of the condition, individuals should see a doctor because infection can spread rather quickly from one eye to the other; or to other individuals through physical contact. The physician will examine the patient and order lab work to determine the type of infection and prescribe treatment.

There are actually three types of conjunctivitis: viral, bacterial, and allergic. Failure to properly wash hands is the chief cause and the disease can be easily spread from one individual to the next. Conjunctivitis can develop as a result of rubbing the eyes with the fingers; using washcloths, tissues, or eyeglasses of an infected person; or as a reaction to plants, fibers, or airborne allergens. Symptoms of mild cases of conjunctivitis include redness and puffiness, usually in one corner of the eyelid; whereas severe cases may include a heavy yellow discharge or crusting and lids that are swollen nearly shut. Initial pink eye treatment begins with carefully cleansing the area and avoiding spreading the infection to others. Refrain from using harsh over-the-counter creams and ointments on or near the sensitive skin around the eyelid. Prescription medicines are especially prepared to treat conjunctivitis and people should refrain from mixing concoctions or using preparations that can further inflame infected areas.

Conjunctivitis is highly contagious, especially during the first two to three days of infection before individuals can take antibiotics. The disease can be easily transferred by shaking hands with an infected individual; and physicians recommend that adults or children refrain from going to school, work, or childcare centers or other public places until symptoms improve. Viral conjunctivitis should clear up with a couple of weeks and infected persons are usually safe to be in the public within three to five days. Within one to two days, people with bacterial infections that are being treated with antibiotics should be able to return to work. Antibiotics should be taken as prescribed for a full seven-day course to be effective; and missing dosages may impede healing. Swelling and redness should become less noticeable within two to three days after pink eye treatment. While conjunctivitis is a natural ailment which can be treated with natural ointments, a spiritual ailment requires spiritual healing. "I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see" (Revelation 3:18).

In viral conjunctivitis caused by allergies or a common cold, pink eye treatment usually includes gently washing the eye and surrounding area with warm water to soften discharge. Applying a sterile cotton pad moistened with warm water to the eyelid for five to ten minutes periodically throughout the day will help reduce swelling and discomfort. Using non-steroidal over-the-counter drops will also alleviate pain. If the source of infection is a viral sexually-transmitted disease, such as herpes simplex, treatment should include a prescribed anti-viral cream and pills, along with warm compresses. Anyone with conjunctivitis resulting from the herpes virus or a bacterial disease, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, should notify their partner immediately. In such cases, both parties should take an oral antibiotic for the full seven-day course to clear up infection. Whether related to a sexually-transmitted disease or not, bacterial pink eye treatment should include oral antibiotics and antibiotic eye drops for more effectiveness.

At-home pink eye treatment includes exercising proper hygiene. Individuals that care for infected persons, especially infants, should be diligent in washing their hands and disinfecting washcloths, towels, and toys. Be careful not to touch the face or eyes when caring for infected individuals; and it is best to wear latex gloves when handling cotton swabs or pads. Carefully dispose of used cotton balls and tissues to avoid infecting others while the disease is most contagious. Moms should also ensure that infants do not rub the infected area, which could cause a healthy eye to become infected. To prevent the spread of disease, pink eye treatment should include washing the hands in hot water and soap for at least five minutes. Under running water, lather the hands and rinse thoroughly. Dry with a clean cloth or paper towel, discarding both in the trash or laundry. Moms should also be careful about allowing little ones with conjunctivitis to play with other children at home while they are most vulnerable to infection.

With proper diagnosis, common sense hygiene, and home-based or medicinal pink eye treatment, individuals should see improvement and less inflammation at the site. Persistent infections may be an indication of other conditions and patients should follow up with a doctor's visit if home remedies and prescription medications are not effective. To avoid conjunctivitis, people should always exercise good personal hygiene, such as washing hands after using the bathroom, touching doorknobs, or before touching the face, lips and eyes. During cold and flu season, people should wash their hands after being around the public or taking public transportation. Doctors assert that hand washing is the first line of defense against communicable diseases, including conjunctivitis.

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