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Student Health 101 General Health
A Reference Guide to Student Health

Eye Conditions

Eye Injuries

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Eye Injuries
Eye injuries or pain frequently require a visit to the physician. One of the most common causes of eye pain is a chemical or an object, such as dirt, in the eye. This can cause irritation and damage to the cornea (the clear covering of the eye). Other causes of eye pain or sudden vision problems include glaucoma (elevated pressure in the eye), retinal detachment (detachment of a deep inner lining in the eye), and problems with blood flow and nerves to and from the eye.

TREATMENT

Home Care
For objects in the eye:

  • Wait for your natural tearing, which will wash away most small objects, to cleanse the eye.
  • Gently rinse the eye with water if natural tearing is insufficient to cleanse away the object.
  • Softly touch the object with a moist piece of cotton if it is clinging to the eyelid or the white of the eye.
  • Avoid scraping at the eye or using instruments to remove any object.

If chemicals splash in the eye:

  • Flush the eye with water for 15 to 20 minutes. See further directions below.

Professional Care
Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • You experience persistent pain, visual changes, or redness after removing any object
  • Objects in the eye are over the pupil
  • Objects seem stuck in the eye or are not easily rinsed away
  • You are splashed with acidic or caustic chemicals, such as drain-cleaning products
  • You experience any traumatic or non-traumatic sudden visual loss or loss of visual field
  • You experience redness, discharge, visual problems, or pain after flushing the eye

PREVENTION

  • Always wear eye protection when using chemicals or cleaning products, or when using any type of machinery or gardening equipment.

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Pink eye/Conjunctivitis
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the surface of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Viruses, bacteria, allergies, or other irritants can cause this condition, symptoms include red, irritated eyelids and surface of the eye, tearing, and a gritty feeling in the eye. A discharge that causes the eyelids and lashes to stick together during sleep is also very common.

TREATMENT

Home Care
Pink eye usually clears up by itself within one week. For comfort:

  • Apply warm compresses several times a day.
  • Refrain from wearing contact lenses or eye makeup until the infection has completely cleared.
  • Use antibiotic drops or ointments, if prescribed by your physician. Even though viruses cause most cases, these medicines prevent a secondary bacterial infection.

Professional Care
Seek medical attention for:

  • Eye pain
  • Discharge from the eyes
  • Symptoms that don’t improve over several days

PREVENTION

  • Avoid direct contact with other infected with pink eye.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly if you do come into contact with someone with this infection.
  • Avoid sharing towels or clothes without first washing them.

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