Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment in Shreveport, LA

Redness and irritation are common complaints we see in our patients. Unfortunately, many diseases will present with those same symptoms, and there can be many causes ranging from completely benign and painless conditions to sight-threatening diseases.

Our top priority at Lusk Eye Specialists is patient experience. We want to make our patients comfortable not only because their eyes feel better, but also because they know they have the right diagnosis and treatment. With pink eye, the answer is not always easy to find.

What Is Pink Eye?

Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” is an inflammation of the conjunctiva — the clear tissue that covers the whites of your eyes and lines the insides of your eyelids. The small blood vessels in the eye become more apparent when they are irritated, which makes the eyes appear red or pink.

Pink eye is typically uncomfortable but not painful. Depending on the cause, it can also be easily transmitted to others. The earlier pink eye treatment is started, the less likely it is to spread to others. 

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Because pink eye is a condition with many different causes, not all symptoms will be present in every case. Common symptoms of pink eye include:

• • Redness
  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Grittiness
  • Feeling of something in the eye
  • Swelling
  • Mucus discharge, which may make the eyelids stick together
  • Tearing

If a patient experiences redness, discomfort, or a discharge, they should seek medical assistance.  And, please do not wear contact lenses again until cleared by the doctor. 

What Are Common Causes of Pink Eye in Shreveport?

Viral Infection: Viral infection is the most common cause. It is also the most contagious form of the condition. Viral pink eye is usually associated with swollen lymph nodes and a watery discharge.

Other infection: Bacteria, fungi, and parasites may also lead to pink eye. Each will accompany slightly different symptoms and require specific treatment.

Allergy: Whether the allergen is something in the air or something put on the eye, the most common symptom of ocular allergy is itching. The eye will also appear red, watery, and swollen.

Irritation: Irritants can include something in the air like dust and smoke, or even ingredients in shampoo and makeup. These can also cause the eyes to be red, watery, and uncomfortable.

Contact lenses: Over-wearing contact lenses, whether it is too many hours in one day, too many days per week, or too many days past its disposable date, can cause a type of pink eye. Not only does over-wearing contact lenses cause redness and discomfort, but also blurred vision, watering, and mucus discharge. 

Shreveport Pink Eye Treatments at Lusk Eye Specialists

To treat pink eye properly, the doctor will discuss your symptoms and do a thorough examination to find the root cause. A treatment plan for the specific situation will be given.

Pink eye treatment usually involves a combination of medication and symptom management.  Conjunctivitis, depending on the cause, may take a few days or several weeks to clear up.

Symptom management is an important part of the treatment plan. At Lusk Eye Specialists, we want your experience with pink eye treatment to be as pleasant as possible. We’ll also show you how to keep your eyes clean and comfortable with a daily eye care regimen.

These may include treatments like warm or cool compresses and artificial tears to make sure your eyes are well-hydrated. We’ll also advise that you avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands frequently, and stop using eye makeup and contact lenses until the symptoms subside.

To learn more about pink eye treatment at Lusk Eye Specialists, request an appointment or call us at (318) 222-5555.