Conjunctivitis Information and Treatment

Conjunctivitis also called is pinkeye. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the centralsurface of the eyelids. There are three types or forms of conjunctivitis - irritant, allergic, and infective. Irritant conjunctivitis occurs when an irritant, such as chlorine, or an eyelash, gets into your eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when your eye comes into contact with an 'allergen'. An allergen is a particular substance that makes your body's immune system react abnormally, causing irritation and inflammation in the affected body part.

In cases of allergic conjunctivitis, itchiness and tearing are familiar symptoms. Infective conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, by bacteria or, in rare cases, by a sexually transmitted infection, such as Chlamydia, or gonorrhoea). The most common symptoms include reddening and watering of the eyes. Infection (redness) of the conjunctiva on one or both eyes should be apparent, but may be quite mild. Newborns can be infected by bacteria in the birth canal. This condition is called ophthalmia neonatorum. Ear infections also commonly occur in children who have bacterial conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis requires medical attention. The appropriate treatment relys on the cause of the problem. Conjunctivitis sometimes requires medical attention. In more severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and antihistamines may be prescribed. Some patients with persistent allergic conjunctivitis may also require topical steroid drops. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with anti-inflammatory eye drops. Gently bathing the eye and lashes with cooled boiled water may help.

Cool or warm compresses and acetaminophen or ibuprofen may make a child with pinkeye feel more cozy. Prevention is better than cure so, you should reserve your hands away from your eyes, thoroughly wash your hands before using eye drops and do not dispense towels, washcloths, cosmetics or eye drops with others. A person who has conjunctivitis and wearing touch lenses may extend your risk of getting conjunctivitis so avoid it. Avoiding contact with infected people, disinfection of household surfaces, and good hygienic practices can asist prevent the spread of infectious pink eye.