Should i use eye drops for pink eye

Senior study author and Kellogg ophthalmologist Joshua Stein, M. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has issued guidance to the medical community on treatment for pinkeye. The Academy tells health care providers to avoid prescribing antibiotics for viral conditions and to delay immediate treatment when the cause of conjunctivitis is unknown.

Researchers received support from the W. You are free to copy, distribute, adapt, transmit, or make commercial use of this work as long as you attribute Michigan Medicine as the original creator and include a link to this article. Updated visitor guidelines. You are here Home » News » Why you're probably getting the wrong pink eye treatment. June 28, Media Contact: Shantell Kirkendoll Why you're probably getting the wrong pink eye treatment.

Nearly 60 percent of pink eye patients receive antibiotic eye drops, but they're seldom necessary. Media Inquiries: 8 a. Infants with possible pinkeye should also always see a doctor, and newborns must be seen right away.

Adults should see a doctor if their symptoms last longer than one week, or if they experience any of the following symptoms:. Many of the viruses and bacteria that cause pinkeye are highly contagious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC recommend that people with symptoms either avoid close contact with others at school or work, or stay at home until the symptoms clear.

Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, is a condition that causes inflammation of the membrane covering the eye and lining the inside of the eyelids. Mild to moderate cases of pinkeye may resolve on their own without medication.

Treatment for pinkeye usually focuses on symptom relief. There are no cures for viral or allergic pinkeye. Bacterial pinkeye can often clear on its own, but antibiotic eye drops can speed up the healing process. Home remedies for pinkeye include over-the-counter medications, lubricating eye drops, and compresses. People should consult a healthcare provider before taking any new medications or trying to use alternative treatments.

Burning eyes refers to stinging or irritation of the eyes. This symptom can be uncomfortable and concerning, but it is treatable. Learn about the….

A chalazion is a small, painless lump that can develop on the eyelid. They usually heal on their own in a few weeks without treatment. What are some common eye problems? Read on to learn more about common eye conditions and tips to help prevent vision loss. Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare genetic condition that affects the eyes, eventually leading to vision loss.

Learn more about how to manage this…. Photophobia refers to an increased sensitivity to light, which can result in pain or avoidance. Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment…. How to treat pinkeye at home. The eyes are pink because they are infected or irritated. They may be itchy and teary, with a watery discharge, and swollen, crusty eyelids.

Doctors often prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments for pink eye. They can do more harm than good. Antibiotics are not usually necessary for pink eye. Pink eye can be caused by a virus, an allergy, or bacteria. Pink eye is usually caused by a virus. Viral pink eye usually goes away on its own in a week or so.