Health Network News

An irritation or inflammation of the membrane that lines the surface of the eye and the eyelid is called conjunctivitis or pink eye. Itching, tearing, burning, sensitivity to light, redness, swelling of the eyelids, drainage from the eye, and feeling as if there was something in the eye are common symptoms of pink eye.

Allergies, bacterial infections, or viral infections can cause pink eye. Viral infections are the cause of most cases of pink eye. Since there are no medical treatments for pink eye caused by viral infection, pink eye treatment is focused on providing relief from uncomfortable symptoms.

Frequent handwashing is strongly suggested to prevent the spread of pink eye. People should avoid touching tissues or washcloths that have been used by the person with pink eye. Many doctors do not prescribe drops for pink eye since the drops can easily become contaminated and prolong infection and instead of curing it.

During pink eye, people should not wear contact lenses. Pink eye will usually clear on its own within three to five days even without medical treatment. Home treatment for pink eye can help reduce the severity of the symptoms and make the person feel more comfortable.

Warm or cold compresses may be reused depending on which one provides the most relief for the individual. People should always use clean compress is for each eye and for each application of compresses.

Frequently washing the eye may provide some temporary relief. The eye is infected with pink eye should be wiped from the inside corner close the nose to the outside corner with a clean tissue, moistens cotton balls, or wet washcloth. Any tissues or cotton balls used need to be thrown away immediately after use.

Washclothes should be placed in the laundry after use for the same reason. The washcloth should not be used for both eyes or for more than one use without being washed between uses.

A home remedy for pink eye is to heat a tea bag of green tea in hot water for one minute before using it as a warm compress. Then after the tea bag goes cold, it should be squeezed to allow a little bit of the green tea onto the closed eyelid over the eyelashes so that some may go into the eye. If both eyes are infected, two tea bags should be used.