The Season for Pink Eye

Fall is known for many things, like the changing of the leaves and the fresh scent of pumpkin spice lattes. But did you know that it can also be a season where eye infections like pink eye appear more often?

In This Article...

1. What is pink eye?
2. What makes pink eye more likely to happen in the fall season?
3. Can pink eye be treated at home?

What is pink eye?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common eye infection that affects both children and adults. While eye redness is the most notable symptom, other signs of an infection may include: 

• Discharge from the eyes
• Swelling
• Itchiness or irritation
• Tearing

What makes pink eye more likely in the fall season?

With ragweed blooming in late summer leading into the fall, you may experience a version of pink eye called allergic conjunctivitis. However, even mild allergies can irritate the eyes enough to cause constant rubbing. Touching the eyes too much can transfer bacteria from your hands to your eyes and lead to bacterial conjunctivitis.

As the season gets colder and people stay inside longer, your contact with others may increase. This can make infections like viral conjunctivitis more likely to occur.

Lea Heuer, OD, FAAO, a CEENTA optometrist who practices at our SouthPark location, offers this advice in case you do contract pink eye. "To help prevent spreading the condition to others, wash your hands immediately after touching your eyes. If you touch your eyes and then touch something like a doorknob, it can spread to other people easily. Washing your towels and pillowcases can also help to avoid spreading the condition."

Can pink eye be treated at home?

Symptoms like irritation and tearing can be managed by using a cool compress and artificial tears along with keeping your eyes clean. Patients who wear contact lenses should remove them while recovering.

That said, treating your pink eye will depend on which version you have. Antihistamines can help with allergic conjunctivitis, but those with bacterial conjunctivitis will need a prescribed antibiotic. As a result, it is important to get a proper diagnosis from an eye doctor so you know how to treat it correctly.

Don’t let pink eye ruin your fall plans. By seeing one of CEENTA’s award-winning eye care specialists, you can find the relief you need with a tailor-made treatment plan and steps to preventing pink eye in the future.

If you find yourself struggling with pink eye, get started on your treatment by scheduling with Dr. Lea Heuer today by calling 704-295-3000.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.