$Unique_ID{BRK01122}
$Pretitle{Nervous System and Sense Organs}
$Title{Hay Fever Conjunctivitis}
$Subject{eyes conjunctivitis allergy}
$Volume{F-21}
$Log{
Conjunctivitis*0010401.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Hay Fever Conjunctivitis


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QUESTION:  Could you please answer a question about an eye infection that is
just not responding to antibiotics?  Each year at about this time I develop a
case of pink eye that is most annoying, my eyes itch terribly, and this
discharge develops that is so sticky I can actually pull it away like a
string.  I've been using the same antibiotic eye cream my doctor prescribed
for my daughters similar condition several months ago but it isn't working.
What do you recommend?

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ANSWER:  Go to the corner and stand there facing the wall!  You have done it
all wrong, and we have some lessons to teach here.  First of all, you do not
have an infectious "pink eye" or conjunctivitis, but an allergic one.  If your
descriptions are accurate, a condition that returns each year at the same
time, is itchy, and produces a typical discharge that peels away like a
string, the diagnosis most assuredly is an allergic condition sometimes
referred to as "hay fever conjunctivitis".  Since it is not caused by a
bacterial infection, antibiotics won't work.  Second, although conditions may
look alike, there are usually many possibilities that must be considered when
seeking an accurate diagnosis.  And red eyes can be the result of a viral
infection, a bacterial infection, an allergy, serious disease of the eye, and
just plain crying (amongst many others).  If the diagnosis is not correct, the
medication won't have much chance of being the one that works either.  And
last, its not cricket to use prescription medications that have not been
prescribed for you or your present condition, for you run a big risk of
provoking unwanted complications.  Your present state may respond to such
simple measures as cold compresses to reduce the itch and inflammation.
Artificial tears are also a big help in reducing the symptoms in such cases.
If that is not sufficient, prescription eye drops containing a combination of
antihistamines and decongestants.  If they fail, then a ophthalmic solution of
cromolyn sodium can be used.  And I might go on and on.  Your eyes are too
precious to fool around with.  If you promise never to do it again, and get
some professional care, you can come out of the corner now.
ÿ
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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.
