Pink Eye - Conjunctivitis

Treatment for Pink Eye or Conjunctivitis in Elko, NV

man putting in eye drops from his conjunctivitis in Elko, NV

Pink eye may seem like a minor problem, but it can cause major damage if left untreated. The medical terminology for pink eye is conjunctivitis, and it can be caused by a number of things such as a virus, bacteria, allergies, or over wearing contact lenses. There is no way to tell which form of pink eye you may have just by looking at it. It's important that you bring any case of pink eye to Total Eyecare for evaluation and treatment. A visit with our optometrist is the only way to make sure you get the proper care and treatment, and avoid potential damage to your eyesight.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Conjunctivitis in Elko, Nevada

In its mildest form, pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and the outside of the eyeball. When irritated or infected, this membrane will turn bright pink or solid red. The eyes will also give off either a watery discharge or a thicker substance like mucous. In addition, the eye may sting, itch or burn and can be sensitive to bright lights. The pink color starts in one eye and frequently moves toward the other one. Conjunctivitis is commonly thought of as a children's disease, because of the speed at which it spreads through classrooms, but you can get it at any age.

At Total Eyecare in Elko, NV our eye doctor will inspect your eye and note the symptoms you have, as well as take a history of any allergy problems you may have. Once the source of your pink eye has been diagnosed, our doctor will prescribe the proper treatment to cure your problem and avoid any potential damage to your eyes. Among the possible treatments are:

  • Antiviral drugs

  • Antihistamines or other types of allergy medications

  • Antibiotic drugs

  • The use of warm, damp cloths to clean and soothe stinging, itchy eyes and to remove any discharge

  • Avoiding contact lens use temporarily, and a change in contact lens care to eliminate further infection possibilities

Once your eyes have healed, it's important that you avoid the environment in which you contacted the disease in the first place. Proper hand washing techniques are the first and best prevention when it comes to avoiding pink eye. The virus and bacteria that cause conjunctivitis are transmitted on your hands, so always wash them before touching your face, especially near your eyes.

Throw away any eye makeup you have, and buy all new products after your eyes have healed. Never share eye makeup with anyone else.

Avoid wearing contact lenses until your eyes have completely healed. Our eye doctor will advise you when it's safe to resume wearing them.

Don't share towels, wash cloths, pillowcases or other linens with anyone else. Change your pillowcases daily while you're healing, and wash them and your towels every day in hot water.

If you have any questions about pink eye, or if you're showing any symptoms of conjunctivitis, call Total Eyecare in Elko, NV at (775) 738-8491. Your vision is precious, and it's our mission to make sure your eyes are healthy and in the best condition possible.

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Monday

7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday

7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday

7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday

7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Monday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed