Strep Throat may be Causing Your Pink Eye
Strep throat is typically a common cause for a sore throat in children and occasionally in adults. It often presents a very scratchy, painful sore throat caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. Unfortunately, when adults are afflicted with a bacterial strep infection, it is also possible to get a case of bacterial conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye.
Pink eye results in redness or swelling of the eye or eyelids, eye discharge, irritated eyes, and more. This particular condition can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens or irritants. If you are suffering from both strep throat and bacterial conjunctivitis, they can easily be treated with the use of antibiotics. In some cases, however, experiencing strep throat with symptoms of pink eye could indicate the presence of a virus. If the cause is found to be viral, it most commonly is caused by an adenovirus and, while not necessarily dangerous, is considered highly contagious.
In either case, experiencing symptoms of both strep throat and pink eye warrant a trip to the doctor’s office. Without a correct diagnosis, treatments may be ineffective, prolonging the illness or allowing it to progress. At Midwest Express Clinic, we are fully prepared to handle either situation – or both! We will help you find relief for your pink eye and can perform a rapid strep test to determine if your sore throat is caused by strep.
Don’t wait around to feel better. Visit one of our walk-in clinic locations today!