Conjunctivitis
Do you have red, swollen eyes? Have you pulled an all-nighter? Or could it be conjunctivitis? The conjunctiva lines the eyelids and covers the sclera (white part) of the eye to the cornea. C onjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva, and can be caused by several different factors . In general, the eyelids are reddened, and there is increased secretion from the eye. Vision is usually normal. It is best to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause before treatment is initiated.
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viruses are the most common cause of conjunctivitis. Symptoms associated with viral conjunctivitis can include a clear discharge from the eye, minimal swelling of the eyelid, and lymph node enlargement. There is no itching associated with viral conjunctivitis. It is highly contagious. Treatment usually involves topical eye medication, but like other viral illnesses, a significant improvement using an antibiotic may not be observed.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis can cause the eye to have a thickened, white to yellow-green discharge. The eyelid may be moderately swollen. Itching and lymph node enlargement are not typically associated with bacterial conjunctivitis. It too, is highly contagious. Treatment requires the use of a topical ophthalmic antibiotic. Always finish your medications as directed, and never use another person's prescription medication. Just like systemic antibiotics, bacteria can develop resistance to topical antibiotics.
Pinkeye is a specific bacterial conjunctivitis caused by one of the Hemophilus strains.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergies can cause the eye to tear excessively, itch and cause swelling of the eyelids. With allergic conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eye is usually clear and there is no lymph node enlargement. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious, and can be relieved with allergy medication and/or prescription ophthalmic preparations. Some over-the-counter eye drops also can help reduce symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
Other Causes
Airborne irritants, such as smoke and dust, can also cause conjunctivitis. Wind, light reflection from snow, and the common cold are also causes of conjunctivitis. Corneal irritation from a foreign body (contact lenses) in the eye is a common cause of inflammation. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a foreign body in your eye, or that your cornea has been scratched.
Symptomatic Relief
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Remove contact lenses, if you wear them
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Place cold compresses on your eyes
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Do not touch or rub your eyes.
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Wash your hands often, using soap and warm water.
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Wash your pillowcases and towels frequently. With an active infection, they should be changed daily.
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Avoid eye makeup, and replace eye cosmetics regularly.
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Never share eye makeup or wear another person's contact lenses.
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Medication used for an infected eye should only be used in that eye.
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Avoid your allergic triggers.
