what is conjunctivitis?
| causes | symptoms
| treatment
What
is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva,
a thin, transparent layer covering the surface of the inner
eyelid and the front of the eye. It affects people of all ages.
What
causes conjunctivitis?
The three main types of conjunctivitis are infectious, allergic
and chemical. The infectious form, commonly known as "pink
eye," is caused by a contagious virus or bacteria. Your body's
allergies to pollen, cosmetics, animals or fabrics often bring
on allergic conjunctivitis. Irritants like air pollution,
noxious fumes and chlorine in swimming pools may produce the
chemical form.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
If your eyes sting, itch or burn, you may be experiencing
the common signs of "dry eye." A feeling of something foreign
within the eye or general discomfort may also signal dry eye.
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It
is important to prevent spreading conjunctivitis
If contagious, measures can be taken to prevent spreading
conjunctivitis to others.
- Keep your hands away from your eyes;
- Thoroughly wash hands before and after applying
eye medications;
- Do not share towels, washcloths, cosmetics or eyedrops
with others;
- Seek treatment promptly.
Small children, who may forget these precautions, should
be kept away from school, camp and the swimming pool
until the condition is cured.
Certain forms of conjunctivitis can develop into a
serious condition that may harm your vision. Therefore,
it is important to have conjunctivitis diagnosed and
treated quickly.
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How
is infectious conjunctivitis treated?
Infectious conjunctivitis, caused by bacteria, is usually
treated with antibiotic eye drops and/or ointment. Other infectious
forms, caused by viruses, can't be treated with antibiotics
and must be fought off by your body's immune system. On occasions
antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary bacterial
infections from developing.
How
are the allergic and chemical forms of conjunctivitis treated?
The ideal treatment for both forms is to remove the cause
of the allergy or irritation. For instance, avoid contact
with any animal if it causes an allergic reaction. Wear swimming
goggles if chlorinated water irritates your eyes. In cases
where these measures won't work, prescription and over-the-counter
eye drops are available to help relieve the discomfort.
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