What is Conjunctivitis?

Causes of Conjunctivitis

The causes of conjunctivitis mainly depend on the type of conjunctivitis that has infected you:

• Viral conjunctivitis: Viral infections like the common cold are one of the most common causes of conjunctivitis. This type is highly contagious.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis: As the name suggests, this type of conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, or Haemophilus influenza. It can lead to discharge (pus) from the eyes.
• Allergic conjunctivitis: It affects both eyes and is usually caused by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or certain medication. It usually leads to itching, tearing, and swelling in the eyes.
• Conjunctivitis caused by irritants: Exposure to irritants such as smoke, chemicals, or chlorine can lead to this type of conjunctivitis. Improper use or contaminated contact lenses can also lead to the problem.
• Neonatal conjunctivitis: It affects newborn babies due to blocked tear ducts or exposure to maternal bacteria during childbirth.

Key Facts of Conjunctivitis

Major Symptoms	Red eyes Itchy eyes Watery eyes Swollen eyelids Sensitivity to light Thick or coloured discharge from the eyes Crusting of eyelids or lashes Blurred vision Discomfort when using contact lenses
Necessary Health Tests	There are no necessary health tests for most types of conjunctivitis. However, you may need a few laboratory tests in case of allergy conjunctivitis.
Treatment	The best way to treat conjunctivitis is to see a doctor. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis will fade within 7-14 days of getting an infection. In severe cases, the doctor may recommend antibiotic eye drops to clear the infection. In the case of irritant conjunctivitis, the infection will get better by removing whatever is causing it.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

As per the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), the symptoms may vary on the type of conjunctivitis. There are some common signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis that you should look out for:

• Redness of one or both eyes
• Itchiness in the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Sensitivity to light
• Thick or coloured discharge from the eyes
• Crusting of eyelids or lashes
• Blurry vision
• Discomfort when using contact lenses

The infection may show in one eye first and then spread to the other eye as well. Timely intervention is vital to keep these symptoms at bay and keep the infection from becoming more dangerous.

Diagnosis of Conjunctivitis

Not all red or pink eyes mean that you have been infected by conjunctivitis. The diagnosis of conjunctivitis typically involves a thorough eye examination. Your doctor will determine the cause of conjunctivitis that has affected you based on the symptoms you show. While red or swollen eyes are common symptoms of conjunctivitis, it can also show other symptoms based on the type of conjunctivitis. In most cases, a visual inspection helps the medical examiner to determine the cause of the infection. However, eye secretion analysis and other tests may be needed in cases where the patient experiences a discharge.

Your medical examiner may also ask you for fluorescein stating, which is when a special dye is applied to the eyes to check for corneal abrasions or ulcers. Allergy testing is done to determine whether any allergens have led to the condition. Once your doctor knows the type of conjunctivitis that has affected you, they will suggest an appropriate treatment that will help you prevent the complications of the disease.

Treatment of Conjunctivitis

In most cases of conjunctivitis, the infection goes away with medical treatment. Your doctor will recommend the treatment that will help you treat the symptoms of the infection. You may even be recommended home remedies such as applying a warm compress if the infection is viral. They may recommend using eye drops or ointments to treat bacterial infections. It is vital to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor to ensure the infection is completely cleared.

Also read: Boric acid eye wash for conjunctivitis: Is it a safe and effective treatment?

Your treatment will depend on the type of conjunctivitis that has affected you. However, some preventive tips might help you deal with the symptoms:

• Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. It can worsen the symptoms that could lead to complications.
• Do not wear contact lenses until the symptoms subside.
• Use a clean, damp cloth to clean your eyelids and lashes if there is a discharge.
• Avoid swimming if you have conjunctivitis.
• Use a separate towel to avoid contaminated items that other people in your family also use.
• Avoid sharing personal items with anyone.

Consult a healthcare professional to accurately diagnose the type of conjunctivitis and receive appropriate treatment. They can provide personalised advice and ensure proper management of the infection.