CONDITIONS
Conjunctivitis
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is the swelling or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent layer of clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. The swelling or inflammation of the conjunctiva makes the eye look red or pink because tiny blood vessels in the membrane get bigger. That is why it is called pink eye.
What causes conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis can be caused by
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Allergy
- Irritants such as dust or chemicals.
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can quickly spread from one person to another. Allergic conjunctivitis does not spread from person to person.
The most common ways to get the contagious form of conjunctivitis include:
- Touching eyes after touching someone’s bodily fluids who is infected.
- Spread of the infection from bacteria in the person’s nose and sinuses.
- Not cleaning contact lenses properly. Using poorly fitting or decorative contact lenses is also a risk.
Children often get conjunctivitis more than adults because they are around many children at school or daycare and might not always remember to wash their hands well.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
The symptoms of conjunctivitis vary according to its type.
The main symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
- Redness of the eye
- Gritty feeling or discomfort in the eye
- Itchy eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Discharge from the eyes
With bacterial conjunctivitis, there may be yellow or green sticky discharge from the eyes, which can make the eyelids stick together, especially in the morning when the person wakes up from sleep.
If there is viral conjunctivitis, one or both eyes might be affected, and the discharge will likely be clear. It can cause moderate pain and redness. The pain is typically a sandy, gritty feeling, like something may be in the eye. There can also be mild to severe light sensitivity.
Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms include clear, watery discharge, along with mild redness. Itching may or may not occur.
How is conjunctivitis treated?
Treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the cause.
- There is no specific treatment for conjunctivitis caused by most viruses. The body fights the viruses on its own. Putting a cool compress against the eye can help feel better.
- For bacterial infections, the ophthalmologist can prescribe antibiotic eye drops depending on the severity of the symptoms.
- For allergic conjunctivitis, some eye drops are prescribed to help with itchiness and puffiness.
- In certain instances, conjunctivitis can arise from exposure to chemicals or other substances irritating the eye. If this occurs, it is crucial to rinse the affected eye to remove the substance promptly. Depending on the severity and nature of the irritation, the ophthalmologist may recommend specific eye drops or ointments to alleviate discomfort and aid in healing.
Usually, conjunctivitis resolves on its own within 1–2 weeks. However, if the symptoms persist beyond this timeframe, it is advisable to seek evaluation from an ophthalmologist. Also, visit the ophthalmologist if any of the below-mentioned symptoms are present.
- Severe symptoms persist beyond 3 or 4 days.
- Vision is affected.
- Light sensitivity occurs.
- Severe or worsening eye pain develops.
- Eyelids or the skin around the eyes becomes swollen or red.
- A headache accompanies other symptoms.
Visit to the ophthalmologist will ensure that any potential severe or underlying eye issues are addressed promptly and appropriately.
How is the spread of the conjunctivitis prevented?
To avoid spreading infectious conjunctivitis to others:
- Wash hands frequently.
- Do not touch eyes.
- Do not share eye makeup.
- Do not use the eye makeup testers at cosmetic counters.
- Do not wear contact lenses longer than recommended; always clean them properly.
- Do not share a towel, handkerchief, or pillow cover with anyone.
- Change pillow covers often.
In conclusion, conjunctivitis is usually not a serious condition. Unless it is severe, it often resolves on its own without treatment. But it is essential to visit an ophthalmologist if there are severe symptoms like light sensitivity, severe or worsening eye pain, eyelids or the skin around the eyes become swollen or red, or if a headache accompanies other symptoms. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the eyes, can significantly reduce the risk of spreading conjunctivitis to others or experiencing a recurrence.
References
- American Academy of ophthalmology. Conjunctivitis. Available from: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pink-eye-conjunctivitis. Accessed on 15th April 2024
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye). Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/conjunctivitis Accessed on 15th April 2024
- American Optometric Association. Available from: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/conjunctivitis?sso=y Accessed on 15th April 2024
- Pink Eye. What you should know. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-conjunctivitis Accessed on 15th April 2024
- Cleveland Clinic. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis). Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8614-pink-eye#living-with Accessed on 15th April 2024
