Conjunctivitis

Medical Review

Written by: Dr. Von Chiao Wen Doctor of Medicine (MD), N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
Reviewed by: Dr. Lee Chin Meng Doctor of Medicine (MD), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Overview of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Conjunctiva is the thin and clear tissue lining the eyeball and eyelids, except the cornea. It is a common eye problem. Conjunctivitis can be contagious, therefore early diagnosis and treatment is needed.

Signs and Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Itching in one or both eyes, Whites of the eyes are red and sore, Painful eye, Eye discharge that makes the eye sticky especially when you wake up in the morning, A gritty feeling in the eyes

Common Causes of Conjunctivitis

Bacterial infection, Viral infection, Foreign object in the eye, Chemical splash in the eye, Blocked tear duct in newborn, Allergies

Risk Factors of Conjunctivitis

Exposure to someone infected with bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, Usage of contact lenses, Exposure to allergens such as dust, mould, spores, pollen or animal dander, Personal history of atopic conditions such as asthma, hay fever and atopic dermatitis, Family history of atopic conditions such as asthma, hay fever and atopic dermatitis

Investigation Techniques for Conjunctivitis

Medical history, Visual acuity measurements, Evaluation of conjunctiva and external eye tissue with bright light and magnification, Evaluation of inner structures of the eye to ensure no other tissues are infected, Cultures or smears of conjunctival tissue if a high-risk cause is suspected

Treatment and Prevention of Conjunctivitis

Putting a cool and moist washcloth on closed eyes a few times a day to relieve symptoms, Artificial tears eyedrops, Flushing of the eyes with saline, Oral medications such as antihistamines, antibiotics, antivirals or anti-inflammatories, Antihistamine, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eyedrops, Stop wearing contact lenses

Available Conjunctivitis Medicines

No medicines currently available for this condition.

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