Conjunctivitis is a common eye ailment that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent mucous membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelids and eyeball. Although not usually a serious threat to vision, it can cause discomfort and hinder daily functioning. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, types and treatments of conjunctivitis so that you can better understand this ailment and take the appropriate steps if necessary.
What is conjunctivitis?
The conjunctiva has an important protective function for the eye, moisturizing its surface and protecting it from infection. Conjunctivitis occurs when this membrane becomes irritated or infected. As a result of inflammation, blood vessels in the conjunctiva dilate, causing it to become red. In addition, the body may react by producing secretions to flush out the irritant.
Causes of conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis can have various causes. Among the most common are:
- Infections:
- Viral: are the most common cause of conjunctivitis, caused by viruses such as adenoviruses. They are often accompanied by cold symptoms.
- Bacterial: caused by bacteria, such as staphylococci or streptococci. They are characterized by a thick, purulent discharge.
- Allergies: allergic reaction to pollen, dust, animal dander, cosmetics or contact lenses.
- Irritants: smoke, dust, wind, chlorinated water, foreign bodies in the eye.
- Dry eye syndrome: insufficient lubrication of the surface of the eye.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis
Symptoms of conjunctivitis can vary depending on the cause, but most commonly include:
- Redness of the eyes
- Photophobia
- Tearing
- Sensation of sand or foreign body in the eye
- Itchy eyes
- Eye discharge (watery, mucous or purulent)
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Sticking of eyelids after waking up
Types of conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis can be divided into several types, depending on the cause and course:
- Viral conjunctivitis: most often caused by adenoviruses, is highly contagious and spreads by the droplet route. Symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a few days or weeks.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: caused by bacteria, is characterized by a thick, purulent discharge. Treatment usually requires antibiotics in the form of eye drops or ointments.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: caused by an allergic reaction, manifests as severe itching, tearing and swelling of the eyelids. Treatment consists of avoiding the allergen and using anti-allergy drops.
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis: associated with contact lens wear, characterized by the presence of warts on the inside of the eyelid.
Diagnosis of conjunctivitis
To diagnose conjunctivitis and determine its cause, you should visit an ophthalmologist. The doctor will perform an eye examination, including assessing the condition of the conjunctiva, cornea and sclera. In some cases, it may be necessary to take an eye swab to identify the causative agent of the inflammation.
Treatment of conjunctivitis
Treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause:
- Viral conjunctivitis: usually requires no specific treatment and resolves spontaneously. Cold compresses and artificial tears can be used to relieve symptoms.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: it is treated with antibiotics in the form of eye drops or ointments. It is important to use the medication as prescribed by your doctor and not stop treatment prematurely, even if your symptoms go away.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: treatment consists of avoiding the allergen and using anti-allergic drops. In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe steroids in the form of eye drops.
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis: treatment may include changing the type of contact lenses, using anti-inflammatory drops or, in severe cases, surgery.
Home remedies for conjunctivitis
In addition to drug treatment, there are several home remedies that can help relieve conjunctivitis symptoms:
- Cold compresses: applying cold compresses to closed eyelids can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Artificial tears: moisturize the surface of the eye and relieve the feeling of dryness and sand in the eyes.
- Eye hygiene: washing eyes regularly with sterile saline solution helps remove secretions and prevents the spread of infection.
- Avoiding irritants: avoid smoke, dust, wind and other factors that can irritate the eyes.
- Wearing sunglasses: protects eyes from sunlight and wind.
- Avoid eye makeup: eye cosmetics can irritate the conjunctiva and aggravate the symptoms of inflammation.
- Frequent hand washing: helps prevent the spread of infection.
Conjunctivitis prevention
To reduce the risk of conjunctivitis, it’s a good idea to follow a few rules:
- Take care of eye hygiene: wash your hands regularly, especially before touching your eyes. Avoid rubbing your eyes with dirty hands.
- Avoid contact with people suffering from conjunctivitis: especially if the inflammation is viral or bacterial.
- Take precautions when wearing contact lenses: clean and disinfect lenses regularly, replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid sleeping in contact lenses.
- Avoid irritants: protects eyes from smoke, dust, wind and other irritants.
- Wear safety glasses when working in conditions where there is an increased risk of eye injury.
- If you have allergies, try to avoid allergens.
- Keep your eyes properly moisturized: use artificial tears, especially if you work at a computer or in air-conditioned rooms.
When to go to the doctor?
In most cases, conjunctivitis clears up on its own or with home remedies. However, an eye doctor should be consulted if:
- Symptoms are aggravated or do not go away after a few days.
- There is severe pain in the eye.
- Vision is impaired.
- Photophobia is present.
- The discharge from the eye is thick, purulent or bloody.
- There are general symptoms, such as fever or headache.
Remember that early diagnosis and treatment of conjunctivitis help prevent complications and speed up recovery.
