What to Do if You Are Suffering from Pink Eye

Pink eye is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a transparent membrane that outlines your eyelid. When the small vessels are inflamed, they appear pink or reddish and can affect vision. Seeing an eye doctor in Midland can help diagnose this condition.

Preparing for Your Appointment

An office visit or eye exam may not usually be required, and the eye doctor can diagnose you with pink eye by asking some questions about the symptoms. In some cases, an optometrist will need to take a sample of the liquid from your eye for a culture. Make a list of any medications you are taking and write down questions you have for your doctor. Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions.

What to Expect from the Optometrist

Your doctor will likely ask you some questions about when you began to experience symptoms and how severe the symptoms are. Your doctor will also want to know if you use contact lenses and how often you clean your contact lenses and storage case. The doctor may also ask if you have had close contact with anyone with pink eye or cold and flu symptoms.

Treatment for Pink Eye

Your pink eye treatment will usually be focused on the relief of symptoms. Your eye doctor can recommend using artificial tears, cleaning your eyelid, and applying warm or cold compresses several times a day.

If you are wearing contact lenses, you should stop wearing them until your eyes start to feel better. How long you need to go without your contact lenses will depend on what is causing your pink eye. Ask your doctor about throwing away disposable lenses.

What to Do Before You See a Doctor

Be sure to stop using your contact lenses before you see the doctor. Wash your hands often for you to reduce the chance of infecting others. Do not share towels with other people to avoid infecting them.

Contact Your Eye Doctor

If you are experiencing any eye symptoms or vision problems, be sure to make an appointment for an eye exam at Urias Eyecare in Midland.