Noticing red, itchy eyes can be pretty alarming, especially if they start getting worse by the hour. Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common problem that can show up quickly.

Conjunctivitis is contagious— knowing what to do when you spot the early signs can keep things from getting worse and help protect people around you.

When to Reach Out to Your Eye Doctor

If the redness and irritation last more than a few days, or you start having eye pain, blurry vision, or swelling, call your eye doctor in Jesup, GA. Kids, contact lens wearers, or anyone with existing eye problems should check in with a professional sooner rather than later.

Spot the Early Clues

Pink eye often starts with redness in the white part of your eye. It might feel scratchy, like there’s sand stuck under your eyelid. You could notice more tears than usual, or wake up with your eyelashes stuck together from a bit of crust. Some people become sensitive to light or feel mild swelling around the eye. It often begins in just one eye but can spread to the other if you’re not careful.

Keep Your Hands Off

Even though your eye might itch or burn, do your best not to rub it, while you’re waiting for your eye exam in Jesup, GA. Touching your eyes can easily pass the infection to your other eye or to surfaces other people use. Wash your hands often, avoid sharing pillows, washcloths, or makeup, and switch out pillowcases until things clear up.

Know What Could Be Behind It

Pink eye isn’t always caused by the same thing. Many cases are viral and clear up on their own after about a week. Bacterial infections may need antibiotic drops. Allergies can also trigger pink eye, usually making both eyes itch and water. Sometimes irritants like smoke or pool chemicals are to blame, and flushing the eye with clean water helps.

It’s always smarter to be cautious with your eyes. If you think you might have pink eye, or just aren’t sure, get in touch with your eye care office for advice on how to handle it. Taking care of it early can prevent bigger problems down the line.