Conjunctivitis - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball.
Overview
Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions, particularly during the monsoon season in India. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies.
Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and resolve on their own or with simple treatment. However, some forms can be highly contagious, so proper hygiene is essential to prevent spread.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
- Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a loss of sharpness in eyesight, making objects appear out of focus and hazy. It can affect one or both eyes.
- Swelling
Swelling (edema) is the enlargement of body parts caused by fluid accumulation in tissues. It can occur in any part of the body but commonly affects feet, ankles, legs, and hands.
Causes of Conjunctivitis
Viral infections (adenovirus most common)
Bacterial infections (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus)
Allergies (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
Irritants (chlorine, smoke, cosmetics)
Contact lens-related infections
Sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea)
Treatment for Conjunctivitis
Artificial tears and cold compresses for viral conjunctivitis
Antibiotic eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis
Antihistamine eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis
Mast cell stabilizers for chronic allergic conjunctivitis
Avoiding contact lenses during infection
Warm compresses for bacterial cases
Good eye hygiene
Prevention
Wash hands frequently
Avoid touching or rubbing eyes
Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup
Replace eye cosmetics regularly
Clean contact lenses properly
Protect eyes from irritants
Stay away from infected individuals
Risk Factors
Contact with infected persons
Allergies
Contact lens use
Exposure to irritants
Weakened immune system
Crowded living conditions
Monsoon season
When to See a Doctor
See an ophthalmologist if you have severe eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision that does not improve with blinking, intense redness, symptoms that worsen or do not improve within a week, or if a newborn develops eye discharge.
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Related Conditions
These conditions share similar symptoms with conjunctivitis and may be relevant:
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, caused by plaque buildup in the walls of arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes.
Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis) is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. It can be alcohol-related or non-alcoholic (NAFLD/NASH).
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over months or years, eventually requiring dialysis or transplant if it progresses to end-stage.
Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood, leading to sudden, severe attacks of joint pain, swelling, and redness, most often in the big toe.
Migraine with Aura
Migraine with aura is a type of migraine preceded or accompanied by sensory disturbances such as flashes of light, blind spots, tingling, or speech changes.
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