Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is generally classified into three main types: viral, bacterial, and allergic

Pink Eye
Pink Eye
Pink Eye
Pink Eye

Quiz: Do you have bacterial pink eye?

Take this quiz to see if your eye symptoms are commonly associate with bacterial pink eye. Your results can help guide an informed conversation with your healthcare provider about whether Soothe Antibiotic drops may be right for you. This product may not be right for you, always read and follow the label.

1/6

1. Do you have eye crusting or is one or both eyes matted shut, especially after sleep?

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2. Do you have eye redness in the white part of the eye?

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3. Do you have thick yellow, green, or white discharge from your eye(s)?

SELECT ONE

4. Do you feel a gritty or burning sensation in the eye(s)?

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5. Do you have sensitivity to light?

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6. Do you have swollen/painful eyelids?

SELECT ONE

Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Bacterial Conjunctivitis? Bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is an infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelid. It is caused by bacteria and leads to redness, irritation, and discharge from the eyes. The condition is highly contagious and can spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected person.

Causes
Causes

Causes of Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial Conjunctivitis is primarily caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

These bacteria can be transmitted through:

  • Touching the eyes with unwashed hands
  • Sharing personal items like towels, makeup, or contact lenses
  • Exposure to contaminated surfaces
  • Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing

Symptoms of Bacterial Conjunctivitis

  • Redness in the white part of the eye
  • Thick yellow, green, or white discharge, especially after sleep
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
  • Excessive tearing
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Crusting around the eyelids
Causes
Causes

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis through a physical examination of the eye. In severe or recurrent cases, a sample of the eye discharge may be tested to identify the specific bacteria responsible for the infection.

Treatment Options

Most cases of bacterial conjunctivitis resolve within a few days to two weeks with proper treatment. Common treatments include:

  • Antibiotic Eye Drops : Soothe® Antibiotic Drops eliminates the bacteria causing the infection.
  • Proper Hygiene: Frequent handwashing, avoiding touching the eyes, and not sharing personal items can prevent the spread of infection
  • Warm Compresses: Applying a clean, warm washcloth to the eyes can help soothe irritation and remove crusting
Causes
Causes

Prevention Tips

  • Wash hands frequently and thoroughly
  • Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes
  • Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces
  • Replace eye makeup regularly and avoid sharing cosmetics
  • Follow proper contact lens hygiene

When to Seek Medical Attention Seek medical care if:

  • Symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days
  • There is severe eye pain, vision changes, or sensitivity to light
  • The infection spreads to both eyes

Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common and treatable condition. By following proper hygiene and seeking timely treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, and the spread of infection can be minimized.

Causes

Note: This information is intended for general awareness only and should not be used to diagnose serious health issues. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional right away.

References

American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2023). Conjunctivitis: What is pink eye? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Bacterial vs. Viral. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Pink eye (conjunctivitis) – Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
American Optometric Association. (2023). Bacterial conjunctivitis. Retrieved from https://www.aoa.org
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2023). Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Treatment and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org