Red, Irritated Eyes? Let’s Figure Out What’s Going On
Pink eye is one of those eye problems most people recognize, but not every red eye is the same. Conjunctivitis can have several causes, and figuring out which one you’re dealing with is important because the right treatment depends on the cause.
At Envy Eyewear Boutique, we can assess your symptoms, examine your eyes, and help determine what may be behind the redness, irritation, watering, or discharge. No guessing required.
Contact us to schedule your next appointment today to start getting relief.
- The Beaches
- Upper Beaches
- Leslieville
- Gerrard St.
- Riverdale
- East Danforth
- The Beaches
- Upper Beaches
- Leslieville
- Gerrard St.
- Riverdale
- East Danforth
So, What Exactly Is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin tissue covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. It can cause redness, irritation, watering, discharge, and swelling.
The 3 most common types are viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis. While they can look similar, they aren’t treated the same way.
That’s why it’s better to have your eyes checked rather than reaching for someone else’s eye drops and hoping for the best.
The 3 Types of Conjunctivitis
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is commonly associated with viruses such as those that cause colds and other respiratory infections. It’s highly contagious and may begin in one eye before spreading to the other.
Symptoms can include redness, watery discharge, irritation, and light sensitivity. Viral conjunctivitis often clears on its own, although treatment may be recommended to help manage symptoms and discomfort.
Good hygiene is especially important. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, don’t share towels or cosmetics, and follow any recommendations about staying home or limiting close contact.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis is also contagious and can cause redness, irritation, and thicker discharge that may be yellowish or white. Some people notice their eyelids become stuck together after sleeping.
Depending on the cause and severity, antibiotic treatment may be recommended. Getting an accurate diagnosis helps ensure you’re using the right treatment for the problem.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis happens when your eyes react to an allergen such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Unlike viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious.
It often causes intense itching, redness, watering, and swelling, particularly during allergy season or after exposure to a specific trigger.
Managing the allergy and avoiding the trigger when possible can help reduce symptoms.
What Does Pink Eye Feel Like?
Conjunctivitis can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Red or pink-looking eyes
- Burning or stinging
- Watery eyes
- Stringy discharge
- Thick or sticky discharge
- Swollen eyelids
- Light sensitivity
- Irritation or a gritty feeling
Not every red eye is conjunctivitis, though. Eye redness can have many causes, which is another good reason to have persistent or concerning symptoms assessed.
How Is Conjunctivitis Treated?
Treatment depends on what’s causing the inflammation:
- Viral conjunctivitis often improves as the infection runs its course. Lubricating drops, cool compresses, and other supportive measures may help with comfort.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis may require prescription antibiotic treatment depending on the diagnosis.
- Allergic conjunctivitis is generally managed by reducing exposure to allergens and controlling allergy symptoms. Your optometrist can recommend appropriate options based on your symptoms.
The important thing is getting the right diagnosis first. Treating the wrong type of conjunctivitis won’t do your eyes any favours.
Can I Still Wear My Contact Lenses?
It’s generally best to stop wearing contact lenses while you have active conjunctivitis or significant eye irritation. Continuing to wear lenses can make your eyes more uncomfortable and may contribute to spreading infection or prolonging symptoms.
Your optometrist can let you know when it’s appropriate to resume wearing contacts and whether you should replace your lenses, case, or other supplies.
If you have any questions or concerns, our team is always available to help you navigate conjunctivitis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conjunctivitis
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious because it results from an allergic reaction rather than an infection.
It depends on the type and severity. Viral conjunctivitis often resolves on its own, while bacterial conjunctivitis may require treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis can continue as long as you’re exposed to the allergen.
It’s a good idea to have persistent or significant eye redness, discharge, irritation, or light sensitivity assessed. Different types of conjunctivitis require different approaches, and other eye conditions can sometimes cause similar symptoms.
If you have a contagious form of conjunctivitis, you may need to stay home or limit close contact with others depending on your symptoms and your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Good hand hygiene is especially important.
Severe eye pain, significant light sensitivity, sudden vision changes, substantial swelling, or an injury involving the eye should be assessed promptly. If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, seek appropriate medical attention rather than assuming it’s pink eye.
Yes. Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis may begin in one eye and spread to the other. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly affects both eyes.
Don’t spend the day wondering whether it’s allergies, an infection, or something else entirely. Let us take a look and help you understand what’s happening with your eyes.
Come Visit Our Optical Shop in The Beaches
We’re just 20 minutes south of downtown Toronto, and a short stroll from the beach. Stop by, and we’ll help you find a look you love.
Our Address
- 1944 Queen St. E
- Toronto, ON M4L 1H6
Contact Information
- Phone: 365-650-6826
- Email: envyeyewearboutique@gmail.com
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- 1944 Queen St. E
- Toronto, ON M4L 1H6
Contact Us
- Phone: 365-650-6826
- Email: envyeyewearboutique@gmail.com