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Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is commonly caused by either a virus, bacteria, or allergic reaction. It is an inflammation of the thin transparent membrane that covers the surface of the eye and inside of the eyelid
Symptoms of conjunctivitis:
- the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids will become red and sore
- your eye will feel itchy, gritty, and uncomfortable
- you may have a sticky yellow discharge on the eyelashes in the morning
- bright light can be uncomfortable
In the past doctors have usually prescribed antibiotic eye drops for conjunctivitis, but research shows that antibiotic eye drops offer little benefit to treating most cases of conjunctivitis
Instead the best treatment is to buy some wetting eye drops from a pharmacy, and use these frequently through the day to irrigate the eye. Viral conjunctivitis usually starts to clear in 2 to 3 days, and should be gone after a week
If you have eye pain, conjunctivitis that is not getting better after 3 days, swelling, or problems with your vision, you should consult your doctor. It may indicate a bacterial infection that will need antibiotics, or a more serious problem, such as Chlamydia
Conjunctivitis in children
The Health Protection Agency advises that children with conjunctivitis DO NOT need to be excluded from school (unless there is evidence of spread to others)
Source: LSMP
Image source: University of Pittsburgh