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Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is an infection in the outer membrane of the eyeball (conjunctiva). The blood vessels in conjunctiva become inflamed and give the eye a red or pink colour appearance. The common causes of conjunctivitis are virus, bacteria and allergen. Sometimes, it can be associated with contact lens wear, air pollution and chemicals.
Happens when small blood vessels on the surface of your eye's whites dilates, causing one or both of your eyes a pink or reddish hue.
Signs & Symptoms of 3 common types of conjunctivitis:
- Viral Conjunctivitis – highly contagious, usually occurs suddenly and commonly caused by adenovirus. Symptoms include irritation, sensitive to light, and watery discharge. In severe cases, it may leave scars on the cornea even after conjunctivitis has resolved
- Bacteria Conjunctivitis – more common in kids than adults and can be easily spread. The main symptoms of bacteria conjunctivitis include pink or redness of the eye, burning, itching, sensation of grittiness, mild pain or discomfort in the eye, thick and sticky discharge from the eye, swollen lids
- Allergic Conjunctivitis – Allergens such as pollen can stimulate our body to create more histamines, which cause inflammation as part of our body’s response to what it thinks is an infection. If anyone has allergic conjunctivitis, he/she may experience intense itching, tearing
Risk Factors:
Various factors can cause eye irritation, including viruses, bacteria, allergens,chemicals, and contact lens use. Foreign bodies, such as loose eyelashes, and both indoor and outdoor air pollution (like smoke, dust, fumes, or chemical vapors) can also contribute. Additionally, fungi, amebas, and parasites can be irritants.
Prevention:
- Keep your hands clean.
- Don't overshare.
- Avoid allergy triggers.
- Clean contact lenses carefully.
- Throw away infected items.
How is it treated?
The treatment for conjunctivitis depends on its cause:
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
- Viral conjunctivitis: Self-limiting, lasting from one week in mild cases to up to three weeks in severe cases. It typically requires only cool compresses for symptom relief. However, patients with severe light sensitivity or vision impairment may benefit from topical corticosteroids.
- Allergic conjunctivitis:Typically treated with antihistamines to reduce inflammation.
Practicing good hygiene is one of the best ways to prevent and stop the transmission of conjunctivitis. Avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands, wash hands frequently, and change pillow cases regularly. People who wear cosmetics should avoid sharing products like eyeliner and mascara. Proper cleaning and frequent replacement of contact lenses are essential, and in some cases, doctors may advise stopping contact lens wear entirely. Those diagnosed with conjunctivitis should avoid sharing towels, replace eye cosmetics, and follow their doctor’s instructions on medication and contact lens care.
If symptoms are severe or vision is impaired, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. It is also crucial to see a doctor without delay if a newborn shows any signs of bacterial conjunctivitis.
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