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Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the
conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer that lines the inner eyelid and covers
the white part of the eye. The three main types of conjunctivitis are
infectious, allergic and chemical. The infectious type, commonly called "pink
eye" is caused by a contagious virus or bacteria. Your body's allergies to
pollen, cosmetics, animals or fabrics often bring on allergic conjunctivitis.
And, irritants like air pollution, noxious fumes and chlorine in swimming pools
may produce the chemical form.
Common symptoms
of conjunctivitis are red watery eyes, inflamed
inner eyelids, blurred vision, a scratchy
feeling in the eyes and, sometimes, a pus-like or
watery discharge. Conjunctivitis can sometimes
develop into something that can harm vision so
you should see your optometrist promptly for
diagnosis and treatment.
A good way to
treat allergic conjunctivitis is to
avoid the cause. If that is not possible,
prescription eye drops may
relieve discomfort. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with
antibiotic eye drops. Other forms, caused by
viruses, cannot be treated with antibiotics.
They must be fought off by your body's immune
system, though a short course of topical
steroids is necessary in certain cases.
To control the
spread of infectious conjunctivitis, you should
keep your hands clean and away from your eyes, thoroughly
wash your hands before applying eye medications
and do not share towels, washcloths, cosmetics
or eye drops with others. Avoid direct
contact with others if possible. |
