Redness or swelling of the eye(s) Blurred vision Eye pain Gritty feeling in the eye(s) Increased tearing Itching of the eye(s) Sensitivity to light.
You can also seek advice from the Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222.
These symptoms are usually more pronounced during spring or autumn when the pollen count is highest. Exposure to cat or dog dander can also cause or worsen symptoms. If you suspect allergies are the actual cause, try treating them with an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, or Claritin,
This is generally caused by H. influenzae. The conjunctivitis will likely present in addition to a range of other cold and flu symptoms, such as sore throat, congestion, and fatigue. [5] X Research source
Staph and strep causes often stem from improper hand washing, frequent eye rubbing, and/or unsanitary contact lens usage. At the onset, you may notice unilateral eye tearing or crusting followed by a quick jump to bilateral eye symptoms. This is due to the highly contagious nature of the infection quickly spreading to the other eye. [6] X Research source For conjunctivitis caused by chlamydia, you may notice the common symptoms, as well as an increased amount of watery tearing and significant eye crusting (to a degree where your eyelids may be stuck together when you wake up in the morning). [7] X Research source In addition to the other chlamydial conjunctivitis symptoms, you may also experience green or yellow discharge from the eyes if gonorrhea is responsible for the infection. [8] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Your doctor will examine your eyes to help make a diagnosis. This may include using a swab to test for bacterial conjunctivitis. [9] X Research source
Do not attempt to use antibiotics for a viral infection as they are only effective against bacteria. [11] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Ciprofloxacin 0. 3% drops or ointment Ofloxacin 0. 3% Levofloxacin 0. 5% drops Moxifloxacin 0. 5% drops Gatifloxacin 0. 5% drops Besifloxacin 0. 6% drops Tobramycin 0. 3% Gentamicin 0. 3% drops Erythromycin 0. 5% ointment Bacitracin/Polymixin B ointment Neomycin/Polymixin B/Bacitracin Neomycin/Polymixin B/gramicidin Polymixin B/Trimethoprim
Rash Hives Itching (more broadly spread than just the associated itchy eyes) Tingling Difficulty breathing or swallowing Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Use a different compress on each eye to avoid spreading the infection, and use a new compress each time. [16] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Opthamologists Professional medical organization focused on advocating for public health and supporting sight-related research Go to source Warm compresses are not recommended. Though they may relieve some discomfort, the warmer environment can create an even better breeding ground for bacterial conjunctivitis.
You can also put the artificial tears in the fridge to cool them. when dropped into the eye, this will soothe the eye even more
If you use a tissue to wipe your eye, be sure to properly dispose of it in the trashcan.
