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Allergic and Infectious Conjunctivitis - Causes
Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a thin (transparent) outer layer to the eye which coats the inner aspects of the lids and the "whites" of the eyes. Inflammation of the conjunctiva may be caused by a number of conditions, each with its own symptoms and characteristic indications that will be apparent upon physical examination of the eye.
CAUSES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS
1. ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS: This problem can result when there is an allergy (with exposure) to certain plants, medications, dust, or animal dander. The effect is irritation and inflammation of the conjunctiva. In this case, inflammation is brought on by an allergic reaction, occurring soon after the eye is exposed to some allergen. The eye will be red, watery, and itchy.
Treatment is with eye drops which may contain an antihistamine and decongestant. There are several "over the counter" eye drops available for this problem. Oral antihistamines (Benadryl) can also help reduce the itching.
Avoid rubbing the eyes because this can exacerbate the condition. Cool, wet compresses placed over the closed eyes can also help. If this measure does not alleviate the problem, you may need a stronger eye drop, which only your doctor can prescribe. Despite tearing, vision should remain normal. A complete eye exam is recommended prior to starting any eye medications.
2. INFECTIOUS (VIRAL) CONJUNCTIVITIS: This is more commonly known as "pinkeye". As the name implies, this form of conjunctivitis is caused by infection with a virus. In this case, the patient has a burning pain to the eye. The eye may have a sandy or "gritty" feeling, be quite red, and irritated.
Viral conjunctivitis may occur only in one eye, but it will commonly spread to the other eye through wiping of the eyes. Viral conjunctivitis is distinguished from bacterial conjunctivitis by its lack of a green or yellow, thick, sticky discharge that is seen in the bacterial infection. Viral conjunctivitis can take 1-4 weeks to resolve and requires no specific therapy. Antibiotic eye drops are occasionally given for those infections that are thought to be "mixed" (viruses and bacteria). This form of conjunctivitis is commonly contagious and is easily spread to other people through close contact. Frequent hand washing is advisable. Vision should remain normal. Consultation with an ophthalmologist is recommended.
3. BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS: This form of conjunctivitis is caused by infection of the eye with bacteria. There is usually little or no pain accompanied by reddening of the eye. A thick, sticky, green, or yellow discharge is also present. This tends to be thickest on the lids upon waking in the morning.
Treatment includes the use of an antibiotic eye drops (or ointment) which your doctor will prescribe. This infection is often transmitted between children and the same precautionary measures outlined above for infectious (viral) conjunctivitis should apply. Vision (after clearing away any discharge) should remain unaffected. See an ophthalmologist for serious cases.
REMEMBER
ANY CHANGES IN VISION WARRANT IMMEDIATE REEVALUATION OF THE EYE(S). DECLINING VISION MAY INDICATE ANOTHER PROBLEM. SEE AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST AT ONCE.
Hope this article will provide you information about allergic and infectious conjunctivitis.
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