Conjunctivitis (often called red eye) is an acute inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid, and keeps eyeballs moist. It is usually an allergic reaction or an infection, usually viral or bacterial. It is one of the most common eye infections that affect children and adults.
Incidence
- Conjunctivitis accounts for around 44% of all eye problems.
- Viral conjunctivitis is more common than bacterial conjunctivitis.
- Both bacterial and viral infections are contagious. Commonly, conjunctival infections are passed from person-to-person, but can also spread through contaminated objects or water.
Symptoms
- Redness in the white of the eye, or inner eyelid
- Tears flowing from the eyes
- Thick, yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep, if it is a condition caused by bacteria
- Other discharge from your eye, either colored green or white
- Itchy eyes, if it is a condition caused by allergies
- Burning eyes, if it is a condition caused by chemicals and irritants
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
Take care
- If you suspect that you have the symptoms of conjunctivitis, immediately consult a doctor. If the doctor, has diagnosed it as conjunctivitis, please do stay at home in order to prevent its spread to other associates.
- Avoid touching your eyes and sharing your towels or wash-cloths with others.
- Protect your eyes from dirt and other irritating substances.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses during this time.
- Applying cold compresses over your eyes provides relief.
- In case of irritation, wash your face and eyelids with mild soap or baby shampoo, and rinse well with water.
- If a particular eye drop causes irritation in the eye, immediately bring it to the attention of your doctor.
- Do not use the same bottle of eye drops in the other eye, if it is not infected.
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