Conjunctivitis And Its Treatment

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Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the white membrane covering the eyeball and inner lining of the eyelids. The infection may affect one or both eyes but is not usually painful. This comes on relatively quickly and lasts for a fairly short time. Acute conjunctivitis may clear on its own, but often needs treatment from your doctor.

Symptoms

Mostly both eyes are affected, but often one starts before the other.The eye is sticky, with a discharge, which is worse when you wake up.The eye is red, with the blood vessels over the white of the eye more visible and sollen. The lining of the eyelids also looks redder or pinker than usual.
The eye is itchy or painful.

Causes
The cause is mostly bacterial or viral in origin, but can be caused by contact lenses, allergy to drugs, pollen, or foreign bodies .


Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause and is often self-limiting, but eye drops are available to help reduce the inflammation, while antibiotics may be prescribed for a bacterial infection.

You could try bathing the eyes with water or water with a pinch of salt in it.

As the condition is often highly contagious, children suffering from conjunctivitis should use separate facecloths and towels to prevent it spreading to others. If applying ointment or bathing your child's eyes you should wash your hands immediately. Advice your child on touching his/her eyes or she could spread the infection

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Treatment for conjuctivitis

Conjunctivitis requires medical attention. The appropriate treatment depends on the cause of the problem.



For the allergic type, cool compresses and artificial tears sometimes relieve discomfort in mild cases. In more severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and antihistamines may be prescribed. Some patients with persistent allergic conjunctivitis may also require topical steroid drops.



Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments that cover a broad range of bacteria.



Like the common cold, there is no cure for viral conjunctivitis; however, the symptoms can be relieved with cool compresses and artificial tears (found in most pharmacies). For the worst cases, topical steroid drops from a local chemist or online pharmacy may be prescribed to reduce the discomfort from inflammation. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves within 3 weeks.



To avoid spreading infection, take these simple steps:

· Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs and counters with diluted bleach solution

· Don’t swim (some bacteria can be spread in the water)

· Avoid touching the face

· Wash hands frequently

· Don’t share towels or washcloths

· Do not reuse handkerchiefs (using a tissue is best)

· Avoid shaking hands