Conjunctivitis: Causes, Symptoms, prevention & Treatment

Conjunctivitis, commonly called “pink eye,” is a highly prevalent eye condition caused by inflammation of the conjunctiva. This thin, transparent membrane lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. While usually not serious, conjunctivitis can be uncomfortable and highly contagious depending on its cause. This article will provide an in-depth look into the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for conjunctivitis.

Types of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be broadly categorized into viral, bacterial, allergic, and chemical types, each with distinct causes and modes of transmission.

1. Viral Conjunctivitis
   Often caused by common viruses like adenovirus, viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious. It typically spreads through direct contact with infected eye secretions or via respiratory droplets, similar to the cold or flu. This form of conjunctivitis may accompany upper respiratory infections.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
   Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae. It is also highly contagious, often spreading through hand-to-eye contact after touching contaminated surfaces. The infection typically results in a thicker, yellow, or green discharge and may cause the eyelids to stick together, especially upon waking.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
   Unlike viral or bacterial types, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. It occurs when the eyes react to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, and swelling of the eyelids.
4. Chemical Conjunctivitis
   Exposure to irritants such as smoke, chlorine, or air pollution can cause chemical conjunctivitis. While not contagious, it requires immediate flushing of the eyes to remove the irritant and prevent further damage.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

The symptoms of conjunctivitis vary depending on the type but may include:

• Redness in the white part of the eye or inner eyelid.
• Watery or mucous discharge, which may be clear in viral cases or thick and colored in bacterial cases.
• Itchy or burning sensation, especially in allergic conjunctivitis.
• Swelling of the eyelids or increased sensitivity to light.
• Crusting of the eyelids, particularly in bacterial conjunctivitis.

In some cases, conjunctivitis may also cause blurred vision, which should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions like keratitis.

Causes and Risk Factors

Conjunctivitis can be triggered by several factors:

• Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected individual or contaminated object.
• Allergic conjunctivitis results from exposure to allergens, while chemical conjunctivitis occurs after exposure to harmful irritants.
• Poor hand hygiene, close contact with infected individuals, or communal environments (e.g., schools or daycare centers) increase the risk of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Contact lens use, particularly if lenses are not cleaned properly, can lead to conjunctivitis as well.

Treatment Options

1. Viral Conjunctivitis
   Since viral conjunctivitis is typically self-limiting, it usually resolves without medical intervention within one to two weeks. Home remedies such as cold compresses and artificial tears can help soothe discomfort. Antiviral medication may be prescribed for more severe cases, such as conjunctivitis caused by herpes simplex virus (Azari & Barney, 2013).
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
   Treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis involves antibiotic eye drops or ointments, which help clear the infection within a few days. It is essential to complete the prescribed course to prevent recurrence and reduce the risk of spreading the infection (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2021).
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
   Antihistamine eye drops and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly prescribed to manage allergic conjunctivitis. Avoiding exposure to allergens and using lubricating eye drops can also help alleviate symptoms (Singh et al., 2013).
4. Chemical Conjunctivitis
   Immediate flushing of the eyes with water or saline is crucial for chemical conjunctivitis. Depending on the severity of the exposure, a healthcare provider may recommend further treatment to reduce inflammation.

Preventive Measures

While conjunctivitis is often unavoidable, especially in viral and bacterial cases, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the infection:

• Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes with unclean hands.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, makeup, or eyedrops.
• Properly clean and disinfect contact lenses according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• In cases of allergic conjunctivitis, limit exposure to known allergens and use air purifiers to minimize allergen levels in your living environment.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Help

While conjunctivitis is generally a mild condition, complications can occur if the infection is severe or left untreated. Bacterial conjunctivitis, for example, may lead to corneal ulcers or keratitis, which can cause permanent vision damage if not addressed. If symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, it is important to consult an eye care professional.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain in the eye.
• Sudden blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Symptoms that do not improve within a few days of treatment.
• A weakened immune system or underlying eye conditions can make you more vulnerable to complications.

Conclusion

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is a common condition with several causes, including viral, bacterial, allergic, and chemical triggers. While the condition is usually mild and self-limiting, it is important to seek proper treatment and take preventive measures to avoid complications. Practicing good hygiene, avoiding allergens, and seeking timely medical care can help manage symptoms and prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.

References

• Azari, A. A., & Barney, N. P. (2013). Conjunctivitis: A systematic review of diagnosis and treatment. JAMA, 310(16), 1721-1729. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2013.280318
• American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Conjunctivitis: What is pink eye? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org
• Singh, K., Axelrod, S., & Bielory, L. (2013). The epidemiology of ocular and nasal allergy in the United States, 1988-1994. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 132(5), 1053-1060. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2013.06.035
• https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/changing-the-approach-to-pink-eye

**Disclaimer**: The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.