A very common infection that involves the outer lining of the eye is called conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. It can present with redness, discharge and light sensitivity, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other. Most commonly the cause is from a virus, and typically resolves over 7-10 days. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can spread through hand to eye contact by hands or objects that are contaminated with the infectious virus. Hand hygiene and thorough cleansings of infected surfaces is important to help stop the spread of the virus. Bacteria can also be a cause of conjunctivitis and. Dr. Reddy and her team at Ohio Ophthalmology will be able to diagnose you if needed with a conjunctival culture or swab.
Treatment for viral conjunctivitis is usually supportive, intended to help alleviate symptoms as it will resolve on it’s own once the virus clears. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic drops, ointments and sometimes oral medications.
Make an appointment with Dr. Reddy at Ohio Ophthalmology if you are experiencing symptoms of an infection and would like to be evaluated.