What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is the redness of the conjunctiva—the thin clear tissue that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. When this tissue becomes inflamed as a result of bacteria, viruses, or irritants, the eyes become red and watery and can discharge.
Types of Eye Infection
Eye infections are not universal. The most typical types of conjunctivitis are:
1. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Red eyes.
Yellow or green thick discharge that can cause the lids to stick together.
Typically begins in one eye and extends to the second.
Needs a prescription for antibiotic drops or ointments.
2. Viral Conjunctivitis
Redness and watery discharge.
Burning or grittiness in the eye.
Often accompanies a cold, flu, or sore throat.
Very contagious but clears by itself in 1–2 weeks.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
Induced by pollen, dust, pet dander, or smoke.
Red, itchy, and watery eyes.
Usually accompanied by sneezing or nasal allergies.
Sorted out with antihistamine drops and staying away from allergens.
4. Other Reasons of Red Eyes
Red eyes are not always conjunctivitis. Other causes include dry eyes, broken blood vessels, glaucoma, or uveitis, which may also result in eye redness and irritation.
Common Symptoms
Depending on the cause, symptoms can be varied, but the most common signs are:
Redness in one or both eyes.
Watery, sticky, or pus-like discharge.
Eyelids that stick together in the morning.
Burning or gritty sensation.
Swollen eyelids.
Sensitivity to light.
Blurred vision (in a few instances).
How Do Eye Infections Spread?
Conjunctivitis easily spreads by:
Touching your eyes with dirty hands.
Sharing pillowcases, towels, or makeup.
Close interaction with an individual with an eye infection.
Swimming in poorly maintained swimming pools.
Wearing expired or dirty contact lenses.
Risk Factors That Make It Worse
You are more likely to develop conjunctivitis if you:
Rub your eyes a lot.
Smoke or are exposed to pollution.
Have seasonal allergies.
Work in dusty settings.
Use old makeup or contact lenses.
Treatment Options
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments (only by doctor's prescription).
Warm compress to gently remove discharge.
Viral Conjunctivitis
No antibiotics needed—virus will typically clear in 1–2 weeks.
Cold compress to diminish redness and swelling.
Artificial tears for dryness and irritation.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Antihistamine drops or oral allergy medication.
Avoidance of allergens such as pollen, dust, or smoke.
Utilizing lubricating eye drops to remove irritants.
Home Remedies & Self-Care Tips
Frequent hand washing and avoiding eye contact.
Don't share towels, sheets, or makeup.
Change pillowcases daily while suffering from infection.
Wear sunglasses when outdoors to minimize irritation.
Avoid swimming until the infection resolves.
Use preservative-free artificial tears for comfort.
Take breaks from screens to avoid eye strain.
When to See a Doctor Immediately
See a doctor immediately if you experience:
Severe eye pain.
Sudden change or blurriness in vision.
Very high sensitivity to light.
No relief in 3–4 days with home remedies.
Worsening of symptoms despite treatment.
Possible Complications if Left Untreated
Even though conjunctivitis is generally mild, not treating it can sometimes cause:
Transmission of infection to others.
Corneal damage (rare).
Chronic irritation of the eyes.
Vision disturbances in severe cases.
Prevention Tips
Wash your hands frequently and do not touch eyes.
Never share personal towels, eye makeup, or lenses.
Disinfect old contact lenses and replace them.
Shield your eyes from allergens, dust, and smoke.
Viral infections → recover with time and measures of comfort.
Allergic reactions → get better by avoiding causative agents and taking allergy medication.
Eye care is easy—keep them clean, protect them from chemicals, and visit a doctor if symptoms persist or are severe.
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment