What is Conjunctivitis? 

Conjunctivitis often referred as Pink eye. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva which is  the thin mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and white part of the eye.  It can affect one eye or both eyes.

What are the types of conjunctivitis? 

Conjunctivitis can be divided into infectious and non-infectious causes:

Source: visioncenter.org

Infectious causes 

  1. Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type. It is caused by contagious viruses associated with common cold.

     

  2. Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection most often caused by staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria from your own skin or respiratory system. Poor hygiene, using contaminated eye makeup, facial lotions and wearing improperly cleaned contact lenses  can also cause bacterial conjunctivitis. 

  3. Ophthalmia neonatrum is a severe of infectious conjunctivitis in new born. If not treated promptly, this can lead to permanent eye damage. 

Non Infectious causes  

  1. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs more commonly among people who has seasonal  allergies 

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

red eyes

Red eyes

Burning sensation

Burning sensation

Eye Itchiness

Eye Itchiness

Watery Eyes

Tearing  (Watery eyes)

Puffy eyelids

Puffy eyelids (Swelling of eyelids)

sticky discharge

Sticky Discharge

sticky eyelashes

Eyelashes sticking together

painful eyes

Painful eyes

sensitive to light

Eyes sensitive to light

What are the treatments available? 

There is no effective treatment exist for viral conjunctivitis as it heals on it’s own within 7-14  days, however artificial tears and cold compress useful in alleviating some of the symptoms. Ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for bacterial conjunctivitis.  These medication may help shorten the length of infection, reduce complications, and reduce  the spread to others. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with topical antihistamine and  lubricants. 

6 ways to stop conjunctivitis from spreading

Avoid touching your eyes.

avoid touching eyes

Wash your hands frequently.

washhands

Change your towel frequently and don’t share them with others.

newtowels

Discard eye cosmetics, particularly mascara.

no mascara

Don’t use anyone else’s eye cosmetics.

othereyesmakeup

Follow your eye doctor’s instructions on proper contact lens care.

listen to your doc