Top Tips for Avoiding Pink Eye in the Fall Season
- Posted on: Oct 15 2024
As the crisp fall air rolls in, so do seasonal allergies and other environmental factors that can increase the risk of pink eye or conjunctivitis. Pink eye is not only uncomfortable, but it’s also highly contagious. To help protect your eyes and stay healthy this fall, here are some top tips to avoid pink eye during the season.
Physicians Eye Clinic in Everett, WA, has been a trusted eye care provider for over 40 years, offering expertise in treating conditions like pink eye, allergies, and other eye infections. With board-certified ophthalmologists on staff, we ensure personalized treatment plans to help patients maintain optimal eye health during the fall and beyond.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
One of the easiest ways pink eye spreads is through contact with contaminated surfaces. During fall, whether at work, school, or social gatherings, try to avoid rubbing or touching your eyes to reduce the chance of transferring bacteria or viruses from your hands to your eyes.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Proper hand hygiene is critical in preventing pink eye, especially during cold and flu season, which coincides with fall. Wash your hands with soap and water for over 20 seconds after touching shared surfaces, before eating, and after sneezing or coughing. This simple habit can help prevent the spreading of germs to your eyes.
Keep Your Eyewear Clean
For those wearing glasses or contact lenses, cleaning your eyewear regularly is important. Bacteria and allergens can easily accumulate on your lenses or frames, which could lead to eye irritation or infection. If you wear contact lenses, practice proper hygiene, including washing your hands before handling them and using fresh solution daily.
Manage Fall Allergies
Allergy-related pink eye is common in the fall, as ragweed, mold, and dust become more prevalent. Keep windows closed, use air purifiers, and wash your face after spending time outdoors to limit your exposure to allergens. Over-the-counter allergy eye drops can also help relieve symptoms and prevent pink eye from developing.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Pink eye spreads easily through shared items like towels, makeup, and pillows. To protect your eyes, avoid sharing these personal items with others, especially during fall when viruses and bacteria are more common.
Get Pink Eye Treatment in Everett, WA
Practicing good hygiene, managing allergies, and protecting your eyes can significantly reduce your risk of contracting pink eye this fall. Stay vigilant and be proactive to keep your eyes healthy and irritation-free. If you suspect you have pink eye, early diagnosis is important to avoid spreading it. Call us today at 425-259-2020 to schedule an appointment.
Posted in: Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
