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Red Eye Treatment

Mission Vision: Conjunctivitis (Pink/Red Eye) Treatment in San Antonio, TX

Boy with conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as red or pink eye, is a common and treatable eye condition where the lining of the eye white and the inside of the eyelid becomes inflamed. According to the National Eye Institute, about 3 million cases of pink eye occur in the US every year.

Medical attention isn’t always necessary for pink eye. Treatment varies according to the underlying cause.

What Causes Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can be a result of any of the following:

  • Viral infection – usually by an adenovirus or respiratory virus, although the herpes virus is also linked to pink eye
  • Bacterial infection – the known culprits include the bacteria that cause pneumonia, meningitis, epiglottitis, cat-scratch disease, gonorrhea, and staph infections
  • Allergy – pollen, pet dander, and dust mites are known triggers
  • Physical or chemical irritants

Regardless of cause, common symptoms include redness and swelling, itching and irritation, increased tear production, and sometimes a discharge that dries to form a crust along the lash line.

How is Conjunctivitis Treated?

Conjunctivitis treatments are often only meant to relieve the symptoms or speed up the natural healing process. Patients may be advised to use artificial tears and cold packs to ease dryness and inflammation.

  • Viral conjunctivitis – antiviral medication (rarely prescribed)
  • Bacterial conjunctivitis – antibiotics
  • Allergic conjunctivitis – antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, steroids, anti-inflammatory agents, decongestants

Most cases of (untreated) pink eye run their course within two weeks. However, treatment should be sought if the condition is accompanied by vision problems that do not improve upon wiping or flushing, moderate to severe pain, or intense redness. Patients with weakened immune systems should also seek medical attention as early as possible.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are experiencing one or more symptoms of conjunctivitis, don’t delay seeing an eye doctor. Schedule an appointment at Mission Vision by calling (210) 315-5559 or through our online contact form. Our eye care center is open Monday through Saturday for your convenience.