Scientists open the door for treatments for pink eye

April 19, 2010

While people may take all the precautions necessary to avoid problems with their eye health, they still may be susceptible to viral keratoconjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye. There is currently no preventative treatment for the infection, and individuals who contract it may have to be isolated for up to two weeks as a result of their blurry vision and discharge.

Researchers at the Department of Ophthalmology of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary have developed a new understanding of how the infection can affect the eye. The scientists are hopeful that this new discovery will help lead to more effective treatments.

The scientists discovered that while a patient is infected, a protein coating around the virus causes the eye to be inflamed. Researchers believe that if they are able to block the protein that causes inflammation, there would be no discharge in the eye.

When it comes to normal eye health, it is important to incorporate supplements such as lutein and vitamin C into one's diet, as the American Optometric Association suggests that these nutrients are beneficial to the eyes.