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Teens: How can you care for pinkeye from bacteria?
Use antibiotics as directed
If the doctor gave you antibiotic medicine, such as an ointment or eyedrops, use it as directed. Do not stop using it just because your eyes start to look better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics. Keep the bottle tip clean.
To put in eyedrops or ointment:
- Tilt your head back and pull your lower eyelid down with one finger.
- Drop or squirt the medicine inside the lower lid.
- Close your eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the drops or ointment move around.
- Do not touch the tip of the bottle or tube to your eye, eyelid, eyelashes, or any other surface.
Make yourself comfortable
- Use moist cotton or a clean, wet cloth to remove the crust from your eyes. Wipe from the inside corner of your eye to the outside. Use a clean part of the cloth for each wipe.
- Close your eyes and put cold or warm wet cloths on them a few times a day if your eyes hurt or are itching.
- Do not wear contact lenses until your pinkeye is gone. Clean the contacts and storage case.
- If you wear disposable contacts, get out a new pair when your eyes have cleared and it is safe to wear contacts again.
Prevent pinkeye from spreading
- Wash your hands often. Always wash them before and after you treat pinkeye or touch your eyes or face.
- Don't share towels, pillows, or washcloths while you have pinkeye. Use clean linens, towels, and washcloths each day.
- Do not share your contact lens equipment, containers, or solutions.
- Do not share your eye medicine.
Pinkeye from bacteria in teens: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have pain in your eye, not just irritation on the surface.
- You have a change in vision or a loss of vision.
- Your eye gets worse or is not better within 48 hours after you started antibiotics.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.