Conjunctivitis, medically known as conjunctivitis, is the inflammation of the front layer of the eye and the inner eyelids. It can be triggered by viruses, bacteria, and allergens. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include itching, redness, a burning sensation, and increased tearing. Treatment methods can vary depending on the cause of conjunctivitis; antibiotic drops, antihistamines, or simple home remedies may be used.
What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin, transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.
It may occur due to bacterial or viral infections, but allergic reactions and exposure to certain irritants (foreign objects in the eye, chlorinated water, etc.) can also lead to this condition. Depending on the underlying cause, it can be either infectious or non-infectious.
Viral Conjunctivitis
It is a common type of conjunctivitis and is associated with viruses like adenoviruses that cause respiratory infections. This type of conjunctivitis is contagious and can easily spread through contact.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
It is a type of infection caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae. Similar to the viral form, it is contagious and can quickly spread in environments with poor hygiene.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
It occurs as a reaction of the immune system in individuals with allergies to substances like pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. This form is not contagious.
Chemical and Irritant Conjunctivitis
This type of conjunctivitis results from the contact of the eyes with external factors like cleaning products, cosmetics, pool chlorine, or smoke. It occurs due to direct irritation effects. It is not contagious.
What Causes Conjunctivitis?
Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is a condition resulting from the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Factors such as pollen, viral or bacterial infections, allergic reactions, and incomplete opening of the tear duct in infants can cause conjunctivitis.
Causes of conjunctivitis:
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Seasonal allergy
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Viral and bacterial infection
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Allergic reaction
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Contact lens use
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Foreign object in the eye
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Contact with a chemical substance
What Are the Symptoms of Conjunctivitis?
The most common symptom of conjunctivitis is the pinkish or reddish color that appears along with itching and redness in the eye. Discharge from the eye, crusting, burning, and blurriness are also among the symptoms of conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis:
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Redness and burning sensation in the eye
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Watery and stinging eyes
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Itching, especially in allergic conjunctivitis
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Stickiness and crusting on the eyelids
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Sensitivity to light
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Usually affects both eyes in infectious types
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Changes in tear production
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Swelling of the eyelid
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Rarely blurry vision
Symptoms may be more pronounced in children, who often rub their eyes, leading to the spread of infection.
What Helps with Conjunctivitis?
A prominent natural remedy for conjunctivitis is applying a warm or cold compress to the eye. This process provides relief by reducing symptoms of conjunctivitis. Additionally, using a compress with cotton soaked in warm tea can have a positive effect on the eye and help alleviate complaints.
Methods to ease conjunctivitis:
- Warm and Cold Compress Application
To prepare a warm or cold compress for your eyes, you can use a lint-free cloth soaked in water. Squeeze out the excess water and gently apply it to your closed eyelids.
- Tea
First, soak a cotton ball in warm tea and then leave it on the affected eye for 5-10 minutes. You can alleviate conjunctivitis symptoms by applying tea several times a day.
- Eye Drops
Artificial tears can help reduce symptoms. There are some eye drops, containing antihistamines or other medications, which may benefit individuals with allergic conjunctivitis.
- Maintaining Eye Hygiene
One method to help reduce conjunctivitis is to keep the eye clean, avoid scratching, and prevent contact with foreign objects.
How is Conjunctivitis Diagnosed?
To diagnose conjunctivitis, an eye doctor first determines the patient's symptoms and performs a physical examination of the affected eye.
Laboratory analysis, known as culture, is rarely used but can be done on a fluid sample taken from the eye. Additionally, a chart test can be applied to check visual acuity.
How is Conjunctivitis Treated?
Eyes are sensitive organs, and therefore care should be taken regarding the symptoms of certain eye-related ailments. If conjunctivitis presents with mild symptoms, it may not require treatment and can resolve on its own or be healed with simple solutions. However, those experiencing severe conjunctivitis issues should definitely consult a doctor.
In the treatment of conjunctivitis, in addition to drops, solutions, and ointments, the use of antibiotics can also be preferred. The treatment of conjunctivitis should not be neglected; an appropriate treatment method should be determined with early diagnosis, as delayed treatments can lead to more complex eye problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is conjunctivitis contagious?
Yes, viral and bacterial types of conjunctivitis are contagious. The risk of infection is high through hand-to-eye contact or shared personal items. The allergic form of conjunctivitis is not contagious.
How does conjunctivitis go away?
Treatment depends on the type of conjunctivitis. Antibacterial drops for bacterial conjunctivitis, supportive care for viral conjunctivitis, and antihistamine treatment for allergic conjunctivitis are applied. Symptoms can quickly be brought under control with medications recommended by an eye doctor.
How long does it take for conjunctivitis to heal?
Conjunctivitis can heal within 3 to 14 days. However, this duration may extend depending on the type. If complaints persist despite treatment, an ophthalmologist should be consulted.
How is conjunctivitis recognized in children?
If children have symptoms such as redness in the eyes, sticky eyelids in the morning, and frequent eye-rubbing, conjunctivitis may be suspected. Diagnosis and treatment should be conducted by a pediatric eye specialist.