No, it's generally not okay to cover pink eye. While you might feel the urge to protect your eye, covering it can actually worsen the condition and increase the risk of spreading the infection.
Why You Shouldn't Cover Pink Eye
Several sources strongly advise against covering your eye if you have pink eye (conjunctivitis). Here's why:
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Increased Risk of Infection: Covering your eye traps moisture and discharge, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and potentially worsening the infection. This can lead to a more severe case of pink eye and prolonged recovery. [Source: Multiple sources advise against covering the eye, emphasizing the importance of keeping the area clean and dry.]
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Spread of Infection: Covering your eye doesn't prevent the spread of infection; in fact, it may even increase the likelihood of spreading it to others. If you touch the covering and then touch other surfaces or people, you can easily transmit the bacteria or virus. [Source: The American Academy of Ophthalmology mentions the importance of not sharing bedding and towels when having pink eye, implying that covering the eye would increase the spread.]
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Hygiene Issues: A covering can become soiled with eye discharge, further contaminating the area and potentially causing more irritation. [Source: Mayo Clinic's advice to keep the eyes clean suggests a covering would impede this process.]
What You Should Do Instead
Instead of covering your pink eye, focus on these steps:
- Keep Your Eyes Clean: Gently wash your hands frequently and wipe away any discharge from your eyes with a clean, wet, lint-free cloth. [Source: Mayo Clinic recommends keeping your eyes clean to manage pink eye symptoms.]
- Avoid Contact Lenses: Do not wear contact lenses until the infection clears. Throw away disposable lenses. If you wear reusable lenses, clean them thoroughly, disinfect the case, and consult your doctor before resuming use. [Source: Multiple sources specifically emphasize the importance of not wearing contact lenses while suffering from pink eye and properly disinfecting or discarding them.]
- Avoid Makeup: Avoid wearing any eye makeup until the infection is fully gone. Dispose of any makeup used during the infection. [Source: Direct recommendation from provided references.]
- Consult a Doctor: If your pink eye is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention.
