Summary about Disease
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pinkeye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, irritants, or, in newborns, a blocked tear duct. Conjunctivitis is characterized by redness, itching, and discharge from the eye.
Symptoms
Redness in one or both eyes
Itching in one or both eyes
A gritty feeling in one or both eyes
Discharge from one or both eyes that may form a crust during the night that prevents your eye or eyes from opening in the morning
Tearing
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Blurred vision
Causes
Viral infections: Adenoviruses are the most common cause.
Bacterial infections: Common bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae.
Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can cause allergic conjunctivitis.
Irritants: Smoke, dust, chemicals, and other irritants can cause conjunctivitis.
Blocked tear duct (in newborns):
Medicine Used
Viral conjunctivitis: Often resolves on its own. Artificial tears and cool compresses can provide relief. In severe cases, antiviral medication may be prescribed.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: Antibiotic eye drops or ointment are typically prescribed.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Antihistamine eye drops, mast cell stabilizers, or oral antihistamines may be used. Cool compresses can also provide relief.
Conjunctivitis due to irritants: Flushing the eye with saline solution is usually sufficient.
Is Communicable
Yes, viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious. Allergic and irritant conjunctivitis are not contagious.
Precautions
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching your eyes.
Use a clean towel and washcloth daily.
Do not share towels, washcloths, or eye makeup.
Change your pillowcase frequently.
Avoid swimming pools.
If you wear contact lenses, clean and disinfect them properly.
Stay home from school or work until the conjunctivitis is no longer contagious. This is usually after 24 hours of antibiotic use for bacterial conjunctivitis, or when the symptoms of viral conjunctivitis start to improve.
How long does an outbreak last?
Viral conjunctivitis: Can last from a few days to 2-3 weeks.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: Typically improves within a few days of starting antibiotic treatment, but can last up to 2 weeks without treatment.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Can last as long as the allergen is present.
Irritant conjunctivitis: Usually resolves quickly once the irritant is removed.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made based on a physical examination of the eye and a review of the patient's symptoms. In some cases, a sample of the discharge from the eye may be taken and sent to a laboratory for testing to identify the cause of the infection.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline can vary greatly depending on the cause.
Viral: Initial symptoms include redness, tearing, and watery discharge. May start in one eye and spread to the other.
Bacterial: Symptoms usually appear rapidly and include redness, thick, yellowish or greenish discharge, and crusting. May affect one or both eyes.
Allergic: Symptoms typically develop quickly after exposure to an allergen and include redness, itching, tearing, and swollen eyelids. Usually affects both eyes.
Important Considerations
Seek medical attention if you experience severe eye pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or if your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
Newborns with conjunctivitis should be seen by a doctor immediately.
Contact lens wearers should discontinue use and consult an eye doctor.
Proper hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.