Dealing with Conjunctivitis

What is Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis or pinkeye is an inflammation of the outermost protective member called conjunctiva which covers the whites of the eyes as well as the inner linings of the eyelids.  The more common causes are viral and bacterial infections which make the ailment contagious through person-to-person contact or through contact with contaminated objects.  The infection often starts with one eye but can easily spread to the other eye. 

Signs of Conjunctivitis

Symptoms commonly found in persons with conjunctivitis include a swollen eyelids on the affected eye, hyperaemia or reddening of the whites in the eye or hyperaemia, chemosis or irritation that comes with pain, burning and itching sensation, and epiphora or watering where watery discharge or tears may come with pus. In some cases, there’s also swelling of the lymph nodes that can be felt in front of the ears. Some blurring and hypersensitivity to light can be experienced but there’s no damage to the eye’s cornea or pupil. 

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious. They easily pass on contact with an infected person or through using contaminated objects, clothes, waters or foods.

  

Management of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis commonly happen during late fall and early spring and usually attends common colds and upper respiratory tract inflections like sore throat and runny nose. Just like common colds, the condition resolves in a few days. 65% of cases subside within 2-5 days even without treatment. 

Pinkeye or conjunctivitis generally to not require hospitalization except in rare cases  of accidental chemical burns which are treated as medical emergencies that could lead to intraocular damage or severe scarring if not treated immediately. Otherwise, just like common colds, all it takes is a short visit to the doctor and a home medication regimen that simply follows your doctor’s orders that may include prescription antibiotics.