Conjunctivitis

Overview

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Conjunctiva is the thin and clear tissue lining the eyeball and eyelids, except the cornea. It is a common eye problem. Conjunctivitis can be contagious, therefore early diagnosis and treatment is needed.

Signs and Symptoms

Itching in one or both eyes, Whites of the eyes are red and sore, Painful eye, Eye discharge that makes the eye sticky especially when you wake up in the morning, A gritty feeling in the eyes

Common Causes

Bacterial infection, Viral infection, Foreign object in the eye, Chemical splash in the eye, Blocked tear duct in newborn, Allergies

Risk Factors

Exposure to someone infected with bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, Usage of contact lenses, Exposure to allergens such as dust, mould, spores, pollen or animal dander, Personal history of atopic conditions such as asthma, hay fever and atopic dermatitis, Family history of atopic conditions such as asthma, hay fever and atopic dermatitis

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Visual acuity measurements, Evaluation of conjunctiva and external eye tissue with bright light and magnification, Evaluation of inner structures of the eye to ensure no other tissues are infected, Cultures or smears of conjunctival tissue if a high-risk cause is suspected

Treatment and Prevention

Putting a cool and moist washcloth on closed eyes a few times a day to relieve symptoms, Artificial tears eyedrops, Flushing of the eyes with saline, Oral medications such as antihistamines, antibiotics, antivirals or anti-inflammatories, Antihistamine, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eyedrops, Stop wearing contact lenses