CONJUNCTIVITIS

(Pink Eye)

 Basic information

description

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation (redness and soreness) of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis can affect all ages and is a common condition in children.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Symptoms vary depending on the cause.
• One or both eyes may be affected.
• Eye discomfort or pain.
• Gritty feeling in the eye (like there is a piece of sand in the eye).
• Redness of the eye (leading to the term "pink eye").
• Clear, green, or yellow discharge from the eye.
• After sleeping, crusts on lashes that cause eyelids to stick together.
• Swollen eyelids.
• Sensitivity to bright light.
• Intense itching (allergic type only).

causes

• Bacterial or viral infection. Conjunctivitis may occur with colds or childhood diseases such as measles. An infection can be spread from one eye to the other. It can also be spread from one person to another.
• Chemical irritation or dust, smoke, chlorine, and other types of air pollution, or home chemicals.
• Allergies caused by cosmetics, pollen, animal dander, or other allergens. (Both eyes are usually affected.) .
• A blocked tear duct.
• Certain autoimmune disorders (e.g., Sjögren's).

risk increases with

• Children and the elderly.
• Contact lens wearers.
• Contact with an infected person.
• Newborns of mothers who are carriers of gonorrhea or chlamydia.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Wash hands often to avoid spreading germs.
• Avoid exposure to eye irritants.
• Newborns in hospital deliveries are routinely given antibiotic eye drops.
• Don't share eye makeup (discard after 4 to 6 months).

expected outcomes

• Most forms will heal on their own in 1 to 2 weeks with no serious harm .
• Allergic conjunctivitis can be cured if the allergen is removed. However, it is likely to recur.

possible complications

Complications are rare, but may include other eye infections or problems of the cornea.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider can diagnose conjunctivitis with an exam of the affected eye. A laboratory culture of fluid or discharge from the eye may be done to verify the cause.
• Treatment of conjunctivitis varies with the cause. Self-care may be all that is needed. Topical drugs for the eye or taken by mouth may be prescribed in some cases.
• Wash hands often with antiseptic soap, and use paper towels to dry. Don't touch the eyes. Gently wipe the discharge from the eye with disposable tissues. Use separate washcloths and towels for each family member.
• For infectious conjunctivitis, use warm-water compresses on the eye to reduce discomfort. Cool compresses feel better with allergic conjunctivitis. Apply for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day.
• For contact lens-related conjunctivitis, stop contact lens wear until a cause is found (e.g., allergy to solution or injury from the lens).
• Do not use eye makeup while symptoms are present.

medications

• You may use nonprescription artificial tears in the eyes to help relieve symptoms.
• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be prescribed for bacterial infection. Antibiotics taken by mouth may be prescribed for more severe cases.
• For other causes of conjunctivitis, different types of topical or oral drugs may be prescribed.
• Use nonprescription anti-allergy eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis (unless otherwise advised).

activity

Return to work or school once symptoms improve.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has signs of conjunctivitis.
• Infection is no better after 2 to 3 days of treatment .
• After diagnosis, fever occurs, pain increases, redness or swelling worsen, or vision is affected.

Special Notes: