what-is-conjunctivitis : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid.

What causes Conjunctivitis?

Pinkeye has a number of different causes, including:

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Irritants such as shampoos, dirt, smoke, and pool chlorine
• Allergies, like dust, pollen, or a special type of allergy that affects some contact lens wearers

Pinkeye caused by some bacteria and viruses can spread easily from person to person, but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly. Pinkeye in newborn babies, however, should be reported to a doctor immediately, as it could be a vision-threatening infection.

What are the symptoms of Pinkeye?

The symptoms of pinkeye differ based on the cause of the inflammation, but may include:-

•  Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid
• Increased amount of tears
• Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep
• Green or white discharge from the eye
• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Blurred vision
• Increased sensitivity to light

How is Conjunctivitis diagnosed?                                                                          

Conjunctivitis can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. Testing, with special emphasis on the conjunctiva and surrounding tissues, may include:

• Patient history to determine the symptoms, when the symptoms began, and whether any general health or environmental conditions are contributing to the problem.
• Visual acuity measurements to determine whethers vision has been affected.
• Evaluation of the conjunctiva and external eye tissue using bright light and magnification.
• Evaluation of the inner structures of the eye to ensure that no other tissues are affected by the condition.
• Supplemental testing, which may include taking cultures or smears of conjunctively tissue. This is particularly important in cases of chronic conjunctivitis or when the condition is not responding to treatment.

Using the information obtained from these tests, your optometrist can determine if you have conjunctivitis and advise you on treatment options.

How is Conjunctivitis treated?

The treatment for pinkeye depends on the cause.

• Bacteria:- Pinkeye caused by bacteria, including those related to STDs, is treated with antibiotics, in the form of eye drops, ointments, or pills.
• Viruses:- Viral conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. Avoid contact with others and wash your hands frequently especially before handling food that you touch with your fingers before you eat it.
• Irritants:- For pinkeye caused by an irritating substance, use water to wash the substance from the eye for five minutes. Your eyes should begin to improve within four hours. If the conjunctivitis is caused by acid or alkaline material such as bleach, immediately rinse the eyes with lots of water and call your doctor immediately.
• Allergies:-Allergy-associated conjunctivitis should improve once the allergy is treated and the allergen removed.