When you look in the mirror and see the alarming sight of a pink-tinged, oozing eye, you may be looking at a case of conjunctivitis. Also known as pink eye, this condition can limit your vision, cause intense discomfort, and potentially damage your eyes if untreated. Fortunately, you can get relief from conjunctivitis right here at Chico Vision Care Optometry in Chico, CA. Our “eye doctor near me” is here to help.
The Painful World of Pink Eye
Pink eye gets its nickname from the pink or red coloration it causes in the normally white part of the eye. This area is covered by a membrane called the conjunctiva. When the conjunctiva becomes infected or irritated, it takes on a reddish hue. Other symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
- Discharge from the affected eye.
- Eye pain, swelling, itching, and/or light sensitivity.
- Blurring of vision.
Conjunctivitis Causes
Conjunctivitis can stem from several possible causes. An acute case may occur due to bacterial or viral eye infections. Contact lens hygiene problems can make you more prone to such infections. Pollen, mold, and other allergens can cause allergic conjunctivitis.
Our Optometrist Can Treat Your Conjunctivitis
Our optometrist, Dr. Pennington, can tell from the nature of your eye discharge and other symptoms whether you have a particular kind of eye infection or allergy. Treatment measures may include antibacterial or antiviral drugs, eye drops, and home remedies such as warm compresses. Most cases of pink eye resolve themselves with proper supportive care. We may also advise you on changes you can make to your contact lens hygiene or eye makeup routine to avoid future eye infections.
Conjunctivitis related to contact lens issues may require additional steps. You might want to switch to a different contact lens solution if your current choice irritates your eyes. Soft disposable lenses and rigid gas permeable lenses might also serve as good options.
Get Eye Care from Our Optometrist on Our Optometry Team for Eye Infections
If a nasty case of pink eye has got you seeing red, take care of that conjunctivitis problem so you can experience relief and protect your eyes from potential complications. Request an appointment from our Chico, CA, eye doctor at Chico Vision Care Optometry. Call us at (530) 342-9644 for eye care from an “optometrist near me.”