Help Prevent Pinkeye With Good Habits
Pinkeye (conjunctivitis) can affect people of all ages. It looks just like it sounds—pink, bloodshot eyes. It can be caused by a number of things including bacteria, viruses, irritants (like smoke or pool chlorine), and allergies.
Although it can look scary, it’s typically not serious.
One Problem Is That It’s HIGHLY Contagious
Pinkeye caused by some viruses and bacteria spreads very easily from person to person. Be especially careful about this if you have a newborn in your home because it can become vision-threatening for tiny babies. Let your pediatrician know immediately.
The Best Offense Is A Good Defense
Here are a few pointers for defending yourself against the bacteria and viruses that can cause pinkeye:
- Always: Avoid rubbing and/or touching your eyes!
- Don’t share towels or washcloths.
- Never share contact lenses.
- Wash hands frequently, especially after spending time in public places like gyms or schools.
- Frequently clean commonly used surfaces such as phones, countertops, door handles, etc.
- Minimize allergy symptoms.
- Keep contacts and glasses clean.
- Remove contacts when using hot tubs or pools to avoid trapping bacteria in eyes.
- Wear goggles when swimming.
If You Get Pink Eye…
Give us a call. We can help you determine the best course of action. And in the meantime, take out your contacts and switch to your glasses, avoid using eye makeup, and wash your hands frequently to help prevent spreading to others.
Here’s A Very Recent, Interesting Story
Just two months ago, this story appeared on television in Hawaii. It’s interesting because it emphasizes just how contagious pink eye can be!
[iframe http://www.youtube.com/embed/wK5QZZV4e2A 620 349]
As always, thanks for being our valued patients and friends. We appreciate you.
Do you have any questions for our team about pinkeye or any other topic? Ask us below—or on our Facebook page! We’ll get back to you right away.