Conjunctivitis – Pink eyes

Description of conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva – membrane, that covers the eye and lines the inner surface of the century. There are many causes of conjunctivitis.

Causes of conjunctivitis

Causes include:

• Viral infections;
• Bacterial infections, such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus;
• Allergic reaction, usually, associated with seasonal allergies;
• Chemical irritation, which cause:
  • Air pollution;
  • Soap;
  • Smoke;
  • Chlorine;
  • Makeup;
  • Other chemicals.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious.

Risk factors

Factors, that increase the likelihood of conjunctivitis:

• Contact with person, who has conjunctivitis;
• Exchange of towels, linens, or other objects (even touching the doorknob) with an infected;
• The impact of chemical or environmental irritants;
• Contact lenses, especially in the absence of proper care;
• Age: more common in children;
• Seasonal allergies or contact with known allergens.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis

Symptoms include:

• Red, watery eyes;
• Inflammation of the inner eyelid;
• The feeling Rezi and scratching in the eyes;
• Itchy eyes;
• Gnoepodobnye or watery eye discharge;
• Sensitivity to light;
• Swelling of the eyelids.

Depending on the cause of the, conjunctivitis, usually, runs for 2-14 days. If the conjunctivitis is caused by seasonal allergies, It may last throughout the season. If it is caused by off-season allergies, It could last all year.

Attention: These symptoms can sometimes indicate a more serious medical problems. If these or any other symptoms you need to go to the doctor for a check-up.

Diagnosis of conjunctivitis

The doctor asks about the symptoms and medical history. He also conducts examination eye. If there is a discharge from the eyes, your doctor may prescribe a check, to determine the cause of the conjunctivitis.

Treatment of conjunctivitis

Treatment will depend on the cause of the conjunctivitis.

Bacterial infections

Antibiotics may be prescribed in the form of eye drops and/or ointment. This will help reduce the symptoms of the infection and the infection time. Before applying the product you want to wipe the selection, that accumulate clean cotton swab.

Viral infections

There is no medication to treat viral infections. Nonetheless, many doctors prescribe antibiotics, If you see the possibility of bacterial infection. Application of warm compresses or eye moisturizers can help relieve symptoms. Eye doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drops, that can relieve symptoms.

Allergic or chemical irritation

Be careful not to cause irritation (eg, smoke, pollen, makeup). You can apply cool compresses to the affected area. The doctor may prescribe eye drops against allergies, to reduce allergic conjunctivitis.

Methods of preventing the further spread of infection

• You need to keep your hands away from your face and do not rub your eyes;
• Need to change pillowcases and sheets every night;
• Don't need anyone to give their pillows or towels;
• It is necessary to wash hands frequently;
• To avoid handshakes from infected with conjunctivitis;
• Bathing should be avoided;
• Must be thoroughly cleaned from any eye secretions with warm water and a clean cloth (or gauze) and immediately throw it away.

Prophylaxis for conjunctivitis

Methods of avoiding conjunctivitis include:

• Cannot be divided makeup or eye drops with other people;
• You need to avoid sharing towels, brushes, pillows, and handkerchiefs;
• Need to wash hands frequently and keep them away from the eyes;
• You need to wear waterproof goggles during swimming;
• You need to clean your contact lenses on a daily basis and never sleep in them (or only with the permission of an eye doctor);
• In the case of allergic conjunctivitis to avoid irritants and places of occurrence of allergies;
• Eye doctor may consider other methods, to prevent conjunctivitis, Depending on its root causes.