WHAT IS CONJUNCTIVITIS

Conjunctivitis is redness and swelling of the membrane that lines the eyelid, called the conjunctiva. Conjunctivitis is usually caused by a virus, other causes can include allergies, fungi, bacteria, chemicals, contact lenses etc. Viral Conjunctivitis is extremely contagious and requires proper precautions such as frequent  washing of hands often and avoiding touching eyes. It usually goes on it’s own in two week’s time. Eye drops or ointment helps reduce redness and swelling as the eye heals. Antibiotic eye drops treat Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CONJUNCTIVITIS: 

Blurred vision, Discharge or mucous in eyes, irritation, red eyes, sensitivity to light, Swelling, Sticking eyelids after sleep, Scratchy eyes, Watery eyes

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis: To diagnose conjunctivitis a Doctor will perform a physical examination and reviewing the medical history. To check for bacterial infection drainage from the eye may need to be tested.

Treatment: Viral Conjunctivitis usually goes away on its own without treatment in two to three weeks. Antibiotic eye drops are  used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis. Allergy medications ease red eye symptoms that are due to allergies.

Home Care:

1. Using a warm or cool compress on eye 3 to 4 times a day to soothe the eye.

2. Using gauze or cotton soaked in warm water to remove the crust that develops after sleep

3. Avoiding contact lenses till infection is gone. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Consult a Doctor immediately of symptoms include seeing a halo around light, blurred or diminished vision, pain in the face, chills, fever and / or severe pain seeing at bright light. 

2. People suffering with infectious conjunctivitis should not go to school or work until symptoms improve to avoid spread of infection.