Also known as conjunctivitis, pink eye is the inflammation and reddening of the membrane that lines the eyelid and part of the eyeball. There are several different types of pink eye caused by bacteria, viruses and other irritants.

Pink eye is highly contagious and prevalent among children as they commonly touch their eyes. Early detection of the condition can help to reduce the spread of pink eye. Common symptoms include:

• Increased tearing
• Redness in and around eyes
• Eye pain
• Swollen eyes
• Itchy, burning eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision
• Discharge from eye

If you think your child has pink eye, visit our Chattanooga pediatric urgent care clinic promptly. Treatment will vary based on the type of pink eye your child has contracted. Antihistamine medication and a cold compress are the most common treatments for allergic pink eye. If your child is suffering from bacterial pink eye, the doctor will provide antibiotic ointment or drops. The antibiotic should be taken in full, even after the symptoms go away.  Typically, viral pink eye is monitored for a week and cold compresses are used to decrease irritation.

Since pink eye is highly contagious, there are several precautions you should take to reduce the spread, even before the condition has been confirmed.

• Wash your child’s hands frequently with soap and water
• Remind children to avoid touching their eyes
• Do not allow children to share pillows or towels
• Discard all eye makeups
• Limit contact with under children

If pink eye has struck your house, the trained, compassionate staff of our Chattanooga urgent care clinic are here to help.