Conjunctivitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye", is a prevalent eye condition that affects people of all ages and genders. This condition is characterised by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort and temporary vision problems.

Conjunctivitis is an eye condition that results in redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva. It's often due to an infection, an allergic reaction, or a physical agent like ultraviolet or infrared light.

Symptoms

The key symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness in the white of the eye, increased tear production, a burning or itchy sensation, blurred vision, and a discharge that forms a crust during sleep.

Causes

Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, and irritants such as dirt, smoke, or chemicals. It can also be a result of a specific type of allergy that affects the eyes.

"Conjunctivitis can cause significant discomfort, but it usually clears up within a couple of weeks." - NHS

Impact and Complications

If left untreated, conjunctivitis can lead to complications such as eye pain, light sensitivity, and severe vision loss. It can also spread to other parts of the eye, leading to more serious conditions like corneal ulcers.

At risk groups

• People with allergies
• Those who wear contact lenses
• Individuals exposed to someone infected with the viral or bacterial form of conjunctivitis

Importance of Treatment

Treatment is crucial to alleviate symptoms, prevent the spread of infectious conjunctivitis, and avoid complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing conjunctivitis typically involves the following steps:
1. Patient History and Symptoms: The doctor will ask about the patient's symptoms and medical history. This can often provide clues as to whether the conjunctivitis is likely to be viral, bacterial, or allergic in nature.
2. Eye Examination: The doctor will examine the patient's eyes, looking for signs of inflammation and discharge.
3. Laboratory Testing: In some cases, the doctor may collect a sample of eye discharge for laboratory testing to determine the exact cause of the conjunctivitis. This is not routinely done but can be helpful in difficult-to-diagnose cases.

Treatment Options

The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on its cause:
1. Viral Conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within 7 to 14 days. Antiviral medications may be prescribed if the conjunctivitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Mild cases may improve without treatment within 2 to 5 days. However, antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to shorten the length of infection, reduce complications, and prevent spread to others.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Treatment involves avoiding the allergen if possible and using medications to control allergic reactions. These may include antihistamines, mast cell stabilisers, decongestants, steroids, and anti-inflammatory eye drops.

"Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis." - Moorfields Eye Hospital

Doctors and Specialists Likely To Be Involved In The Patient’s Care

The management of a patient with conjunctivitis may involve the following healthcare professionals:
- General Practitioners: They are often the first point of contact for patients with conjunctivitis and can diagnose and treat most cases.
- Optometrists: They can diagnose and manage conjunctivitis, particularly if there are concerns about the patient's vision.
- Ophthalmologists: They are eye specialists who may be involved in the care of patients with severe or complicated cases of conjunctivitis.
- Allergists: They may be consulted if the conjunctivitis is thought to be allergic in nature.

Prevention

Prevention measures include washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the eyes, and not sharing personal items like towels or cosmetics.

Contagiousness and Isolation Advice

Conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. It's important to avoid close contact with others until the condition is no longer contagious.

Related Conditions or Complications

Conjunctivitis can lead to inflammation of the cornea, a condition known as keratitis. In severe cases, it can cause vision loss.

"Understanding the symptoms and causes of conjunctivitis can help you seek treatment quickly and prevent complications." - Fight for Sight

Outlook and Prognosis

With proper treatment, most people recover from conjunctivitis without any long-term eye health problems.

Practical Tips & Coping Strategies

• Use a warm compress on the eyes to relieve discomfort
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until the condition has cleared
• Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to soothe the eyes
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of the condition