Conjunctivitis - Infectious Diseases

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. When small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed, they're more visible, causing the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink.

Causes of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be caused by viral, bacterial, or allergic reactions. The most common infectious causes include:

Adenoviruses – Commonly cause viral conjunctivitis.
Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae – Frequently responsible for bacterial conjunctivitis.
Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae – Can cause sexually transmitted infections that may lead to conjunctivitis.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include:

Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid
Increased amount of tears
Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep
Itchy or burning eyes
Blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light

Transmission

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and can spread through direct or indirect contact with the eye secretions of an infected person. Proper hand hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items like towels and cosmetics can help prevent the spread.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is often based on the symptoms and physical examination of the eye. In some cases, a swab of conjunctival tissue may be taken to identify the specific causative agent, especially if the infection is severe or not responding to treatment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause:

Viral Conjunctivitis: Usually resolves on its own within a few days to two weeks. Symptomatic relief can be provided by cool compresses and artificial tears.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Often treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Managed by avoiding the allergen and using antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

Practicing good hygiene
Avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes
Not sharing personal items such as towels, makeup, or contact lenses
Using proper contact lens hygiene

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Intense eye pain
Blurred vision
Increased sensitivity to light
Symptoms that worsen or do not improve with time
Pre-existing eye conditions that may complicate the infection

Conclusion

Conjunctivitis is a common eye condition that can be caused by infections or allergies. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help manage the condition effectively and prevent its spread.