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DEFINITION:
The eye is constantly exposed to many germs, dirt and other irritants, some of which can cause eye infections. The most common eye infection in the United States is called "conjunctivitis." Cases may vary from a mild redness with watery eyes to serious infections where vision is impaired or even damaged.
Conjunctivitis (also called "pink eye") is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eyeball and the inside of the eyelids.
CAUSES:
Conjunctivitis results when the conjunctiva becomes infected, usually by a virus or bacteria. It also can be caused by allergic reactions or chemical irritations.
WARNING SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS:
Signs of conjunctivitis are red and irritated eyes. If you have conjunctivitis, you may wake up with your eyelashes stuck together from dried mucus produced during the night.
The condition often affects both eyes and causes a gritty feeling in your eyes. Although vision is usually not affected, your eyes may be extremely sensitive to light. There is a stickiness of the eyelids, and in severe cases, the eyelids are swollen. Itching frequently accompanies allergic conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis can be confused with a more serious eye disease known as iritis. That's why it is important to have your eye problem diagnosed and treated by a qualified eye care professional.
WHO IS MOST AFFECTED?
Anyone can get conjunctivitis since it can be highly contagious. The germs causing conjunctivitis spread easily throughout a family or classroom in a matter of days. Germs travel from one person's hands, towels, or linens to the next person. When that person touches his face or eyes, the infection can be transferred.
AVOID INFECTING OTHERS:
Follow these simple steps to avoid spreading infectious conjunctivitis to others.
1. Avoid touching or rubbing the infected eye(s).
2. Wash your hands frequently with soap throughout the day.
3. Use paper towels instead of washcloths or cloth towels. If you must use cloth towels, set some aside only for your use to avoid spreading the infection to others.
4. Wipe any discharge from eyes at least twice a day with a clean, wet towel or cotton swab, or as directed by your eye care professional.
5. Use facial tissues instead of handkerchiefs.
6. Wash any cloth towels, washcloths, and linens that you have used in a hot water laundry cycle.
7. Do not use contact lenses or eye makeup until your eye is totally healed.
8. Keep children or adults home from school or work as directed by your eye care professional.
TREATMENT:
Cleaning the crusting on the eyelids every few hours with a cotton swab soaked in lukewarm water usually helps the eye feel better. Antibiotic eye drops, ointments or other medications may also be prescribed.
Tinted glasses may relieve discomfort from bright light. They can also provide a cosmetic shield for the reddened and swollen eyes. The eye should not be covered by a patch, however, as this can make the infection worse.
Although many types of conjunctivitis will eventually clear up by themselves, it is best to have an examination by your eye care professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
TYPES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS:
Viral Conjunctivitis is very common. Sometimes it is associated with a low-grade upper respiratory condition that appears to be a common cold. Inflammation of the cornea often accompanies viral conjunctivitis.
Allergic Conjunctivitis can be caused by almost any particle, such as pollen, cosmetics, chemicals in the air, or dust. It usually involves both eyes and causes extreme itching, mucousy discharge, moderate redness, tearing and sometimes nasal discharge and head congestion. Hay fever and upper respiratory infections are often accompanied by allergic conjunctivitis. The skin and the eyelids may become inflamed, swollen, and itchy.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis is extremely common and may come on quickly or it may occur gradually over a period of days. It may produce severe symptoms or it may progress with minimal irritation. The intensity of this problem is often related to the type of bacteria involved and the general health and natural resistance of the infected person.
Chemical/Toxic Conjunctivitis is caused by direct contact with noxious fumes, particles, or chemical fluids. It can result in a red eye with tearing, pain, and sensitivity to light. The severity depends on the type of chemical and the length of time the eye was exposed.
A FINAL REMINDER:
Whatever irritation may occur, the eye is a sensitive organ that must be treated with great care. When in doubt about any eye problem, call your eye care professional immediately.
NOTE: The above information has been compiled from sources considered to be accurate. The information provided is not, however, intended to serve as a complete resource for eye health, eye care, or eye safety information, or as a substitute for professional eye care advice.
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