Conjunctivitis

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Conjunctivitis

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers part of the eyeball and the inner part of the eyelids.

The conjunctiva contains small blood vessels that appear as thin red lines on the sclera (the white of the eye). When inflamed, these blood vessels cause the eye to look red.

Although conjunctivitis is a benign condition that does not affect vision, it can lead to complications if not treated properly.

What causes it?

Types and Causes of Conjunctivitis

  1. Infectious Conjunctivitis

    • Represents about one-third of all cases.
    • Caused by bacteria or viruses.

  2. Allergic Conjunctivitis

    • Triggered by exposure to allergens (substances causing an allergic reaction).
    • Common allergens:
      • Dust mites.
      • Pollen from trees, flowers, and plants.
      • Animal dander.
      • Fungi.
    • Other causes: dry climates and the use of soft contact lenses.

  3. Irritant Conjunctivitis

    • Results from eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) or exposure to irritants.
    • Common irritants:
      • Cosmetic products.
      • Environmental substances (solvents, paints, swimming pool chlorine, etc.).

How can it be prevented?

General Preventive Measures

  • Avoid exposure to allergens.
  • If symptoms appear, consult an ophthalmologist.

For Infectious Conjunctivitis

  • Do not share items in contact with infected eyes (e.g., pillowcases, sheets, towels, eye liners).
  • Wash hands immediately after contact with an infected person.
  • Prevent infected children from attending school.
  • Clean eye discharges twice daily.
  • Avoid wearing contact lenses or makeup during infection.

Symptoms

Common Symptoms

  • Redness.
  • Itching.
  • Foreign body sensation (grit in the eye).
  • Eyelid swelling.
  • Watery eyes.
  • Discharges.

Severe Symptoms

  • External pain when opening and closing eyelids.
  • Photophobia (sensitivity to light).
  • Significant eyelid swelling.
  • Persistent foreign body sensation.

Specific Cases

  • Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Thick yellow or greenish discharge, often causing eyelids to stick together in the morning.
  • Allergic Conjunctivitis: Intense itching, nasal allergy symptoms (sneezing, obstruction, watery discharge), and sometimes asthma or dermatitis.

Treatments

Viral Conjunctivitis

  • Similar to a cold, there is no specific treatment.
  • Ophthalmologists recommend special care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

  • Treated with antibiotic eye drops.
  • Symptoms usually subside within a week.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

  • Responds well to antihistamines.
  • Symptoms can improve if the allergen is removed.
  • Cold compresses can provide relief.
  • In some cases, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Irritant Conjunctivitis

  • Managed by eliminating the irritant.
  • Anti-inflammatory treatments help restore normal eye health.