$Unique_ID{BRK00851}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Causes Pink Eye?}
$Subject{eyes conjunctivitis pink eye treatment Sense senses Infections
inflammation viruses allergic reaction bacterial infection contagious
antibiotic eye drops wash hands allergic reaction}
$Volume{A-21}
$Log{
Conjunctivitis of the Eye*0010401.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Causes Pink Eye?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  We have an epidemic of pink eye in our house these days.  I am at
my wit's end.  What causes this horror and what can we do?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Pink eye is another name for "acute conjunctivitis" which is an acute
inflammation of the transparent tissue that covers the outside of our eyeballs
(the conjunctiva).  It is most frequently caused by viruses, but can also be
the result of an allergic reaction or a bacterial infection.  Bacterial
conjunctivitis is highly contagious and special precautions are necessary to
prevent its spreading to all members of the family.  Once the diagnosis has
been made, antibiotic eye drops are usually prescribed and you should follow
your physician's instructions carefully.  Everyone in the household must wash
their hands very frequently and be restricted to using their own towels and
washcloths.  Put away your handkerchiefs for now and distribute paper tissues
which should then be discarded immediately after any use.
     Though this condition is most annoying and may look terrible at times, it
is not serious and responds rapidly to the right medication.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.