How to treat pink eye

Following a reported increase in pink eye cases in some parts of the country, including Kwazulu-Natal, the Boksburg Advertiser caught up with a local optometrist, Susan Papenfus of Susan Papenfus Optometry, to find out more about the contagious disease.

What is pink eye?
Pink eye is the inflammation of the transparent membrane known as conjunctiva that lines they eyelid and eyeball.

What causes it?
It can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. It can also be caused by an incompletely opened tear duct in babies.

How it spreads?
It can be passed through being in contact with an item that may already have the virus or bacteria on it. Most bacteria can survive for eight hours, although most viruses can survive a couple days and some last for months.

The infection can be also spread to others through close contact, such as a handshake, hug or kiss. Coughing and sneezing can also spread the infection.

People who wear contact lenses are more likely to be affected by pink eye, especially if they’re extended wear lenses. That is because bacteria can live and grow on lenses.

How can it be prevented?
Papenfus recommends washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Wash especially before and after cleaning or applying eye drops or ointment to your infected eye.

Avoid rubbing your eyes as that will worsen the condition. With clean hands, wash any discharge from around your eye using a clean, wet washcloth or fresh cotton ball. Do not use the same eyedrop dispenser for your infected and non-infected eyes. Wash pillow cases, sheets, washcloths and towels often in hot water and detergent; wash your hands after handling such items.

Stop wearing contact lenses until your doctor says you may wear them. Clean your eyeglasses and do not share personal items such as wash cloths, or make-up brushes.

Doctor’s eye care advice

Get your eyes tested regularly for any eyesight problems but also to check your eye health. It is best to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist regarding advice on which eye drops you may use.

There is no one cures-all eyedrop. In addition, there are many sight threatening eye conditions that don’t necessarily show symptoms. Glaucoma is one of such condition where blindness can be prevented from early detection and intervention.

Contact your nearest optometrist for advice if needed.

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