Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Possible Symptoms:

Affecting one or both eyes -

• red eyes
• swollen lids
• itchiness
• crusting or pussy eyes
• gritty eyes
• increased tearing

Pink Eye is an irritation of the white of the eye and the eyelid. It can make your eye look red or pinkish in colour. It is easily passed from person to person. Thorough handwashing by both the sufferer and the caretaker is very important to prevent the spread of infection.

Often when someone is suffering from Pink Eye the eyes will make more tears. This can make the eyes uncomfortable and crusty after sleep. Clean the crusts away by holding a warm, damp cloth gently over the eye. Recheck the eye about an hour later. If there is just a small quantity of crusty discharge, then the cause of this eye irritation is likely viral. If, however, a creamy, runny or stringy discharge is forming then the cause is probably bacterial. Conjunctivitis is irritating but should not be too painful. If there is a lot of pain, you should see your nurse/doctor. Follow the instructions in Home Suggestions and you should be able to take care of this illness at home.

Please note: During the allergy season (spring through fall), a very itchy eye most likely indicates an allergic reaction rather than Pink Eye.

Please answer the following questions in order to know whatto donext.

Questions

Is there severe redness or swelling around the eye?

or

Is there pain around or behind the eye or is there pain with eye movements?

or

Is there a fever present? (see page 3)

or

Are you having trouble seeing?

or

Is this a newborn child?

or

Has there been recent eye surgery?

or

Do you wear contact lenses?

or

Does bright light hurt the eyes?

or

Have you noticed the pupils are different sizes?