Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Most commonly referred to as “pink” eye. Conjunctivitis may
occur in one or both eyes.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
 Inflammation of the eye
 Increased tearing
 Soreness of the eye
 Foreign body sensation
 Itchiness of the eye
 Hazy or blurred vision due to mucous or pus
 Excess mucous (pus)
 Crusting of eyelashes in the morning

What Causes Conjunctivitis?
Many different sources of eye irritation can cause conjunctivitis. The most common are:

  • Infections (viral and bacterial)
  • Allergies

Viral infection is the most common cause of conjunctivitis. This same virus produces the familiar red and watery
eyes, sore throat and runny nose of a common cold. Symptoms of conjunctivitis can last from one to two weeks and
then will disappear on their own. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections,
and should not be used unless recommended by your ophthalmologist.
Discomfort, however, can be alleviated with cool compresses applied to
the eyes, or artificial tears that have been chilled in the refrigerator.
A common consequence to viral conjunctivitis is corneal involvement
(keratitis). Usually it happens one week after the start of the
conjunctivitis and should be suspected whenever there is a flare up after
a period of improvement or whenever there is decrease or bluriness of
vision.
Bacterial infections, such as staphylococcus or streptococcus, cause a type of red eye that produces considerable
amounts of pus. Some bacterial infections, however, are more chronic and may produce little or no discharge except
for some mild crusting of the eyelashes in the morning. Antibiotic eye-drops are typically used to treat bacterial
conjunctivitis.
Infectious conjunctivitis, whether bacterial or viral, can be quite contagious. Practicing good hygiene can help
prevent the spread of conjunctivitis if you are infected. You should:
 Avoid re-using handkerchiefs and towels to wipe your face and eyes
 Wash your hands frequently
 Keep your hands away from your eyes
 Replace your eye cosmetics regularly and do not share with other people
 Properly clean your contact lenses and case

Allergic conjunctivitis is not infectious or contagious. It occurs when the body is exposed to materials that cause an
allergic reaction, such as pollen or dander, and is often seasonal. Symptoms include redness, itching and/or burning
eyes, tearing, and puffy eyelids. Treatment often includes applying cool compresses to the eyes and taking
antihistamines.
If symptoms of conjunctivitis persist for an extended period of time after treatment, you should have your eyes
examined by Dr. Farah, as these symptoms may indicate a more serious eye problem. There are several eye diseases
that cause red eyes, some of which can lead to blindness unless diagnosed and treated.

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