Conjunctivitis Overview

Conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye. It is caused by an infection or inflammation of the transparent membrane, or the conjunctiva, that lines the eyelid and a part of eyeball. The inflammation makes the small blood vessels become more prominent and make your eyes appear pink or red in color. The disease can affect people of all age groups and can easily spread from one person to another. Conjunctivitis is not a serious problem but it may cause slight irritation and discomfort to the person. The eyes may become itchy, swollen, show excess tear formation and there might be some kind of discharge as well. If the disease is caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens or irritants, it can be treated quickly with the help of medications. 

The common causes of conjunctivitis include viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. It can also occur in babies and is usually due to some tear duct that is opened. The inflammation can be irritating and affect your vision. If you suspect conjunctivitis, it is better to seek medical help to prevent it from spreading.

 

The symptoms of conjunctivitis usually depend on the cause of the inflammation. The symptoms include redness in the inner part of the eye lid or the white color of the eye, excessive tear, thick and yellowish discharge that can be seen crusted over the eyelashes, white or green discharge from the eyes, burning and itchy eyes, blurred vision, and sometimes, sensitivity to light. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you have to visit your doctor and seek medical help immediately.

 

The doctor may examine your eyes and use the fluid from the eyes for lab testing. The reasons, such as bacteria, viruses or sexually transmitted disease will be identified, and the doctor will prescribe the necessary medications.

Conjunctivitis is treated according to the underlying cause. Some of the treatment methods are: if the disease is caused by bacteria or a sexually transmitted disease, antibiotics are prescribed. The medications are in the form of pills, drops or ointments. The drops and ointments will have to be applied inside the eyes according to your doctor’s advice. Pills have to be taken orally.

 

Pink eyes due to viruses are often due to common cold. It can last up to seven days. This type of conjunctivitis is highly contagious. So, try to avoid any contact with the person affected with this disease.

 

Some irritants can also cause pink eye. Water should be used for washing away the substance from the eyes. Within a few hours of washing you can see some improvement in the condition of your eyes. Sometimes, the irritation can also be caused by some alkaline or acid materials. In such cases, rinse the eyes at once and visit your doctor immediately.

 

If conjunctivitis is caused by allergens, then the condition will improve when cause behind the allergy is treated or removed.

 

Pink eye is mostly self-limited and may get cured on its own or after using antibiotics. Sometimes, some forms of the disease can be complicated and affect the vision. This happens when conjunctivitis is caused by chlamydia, gonorrhea and certain strains of adeno virus. There are some simple home remedies for coping with the condition. Apply a compress to the eyes, try some over-the-counter eye drops, avoid using makeup, protect your eyes from irritating substances and dirt, and stop using your contact lenses.

 

Pink eye due to virus is highly contagious. Proper hygiene and frequent hand washing is necessary to minimize the transmission of the virus. Avoid touching the face because the virus can come in contact with the nose, eyes, mouth etc. If you are allergic to certain materials, avoid contact with these to reduce the risk of contacting the disease. If a family member is suffering from conjunctivitis, wash your hands thoroughly and avoid sharing towels, clothes, pillows or any other thing he/she might be using.