The New Nation - Internet Edition

Conjunctivitis commonly known as "pink eye," is an inflammation of the membrane (conjunctiva) that covers the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelid. There are four main causes of conjunctivitis.

One cause involves the introduction of either bacterial or viral microorganisms into the eye. These may be transmitted to the eye by contaminated hands, washcloths or towels, cosmetics (particularly eye makeup), false eyelashes or extended wear contacts.

Minor conjunctivitis can accompany a viral cold or flu. Although bacterial and some of the viral infections (particularly herpes) are not very common, they are potentially serious. Both types of infection are contagious.

Irritants are another cause of conjunctivitis. Offenders of this type include air pollutants, smoke, soap, hairspray, makeup, chlorine, cleaning fluids, etc.

Seasonal allergic response to grass and other pollens can cause some individuals to acquire conjunctivitis.

Pink eye may be more serious if you: has a condition that decreases your ability to fight infection (impaired immune system), have vision in only one eye or you wear contact lenses.

Various combinations of the following symptoms may be present: itching, redness, sensitivity to light, feeling as if something is in the eye, swelling of the lids and/or discharge from the eyes. The consistency of possible discharge may range from watery to pus-like, depending on the specific cause of the conjunctivitis.

It usually takes from a few days to two weeks for mo s t types of conjunctivitis to clear. Conjunctivitis due to an allergy may continue as long as the offending pollen is present. Under such conditions, symptoms are likely to recur each year.

Diagnosis consists of physical examination of the eye by the clinician. If a discharge is present, a culture for bacteria may be warranted.

Treatment varies depending on the cause. Medications in the form of ointments, drops or pills may be recommended to help kill the germ infecting the eye, relieve allergic symptoms and/or decrease discomfort. In the case of conjunctivitis due to a viral cold or flu, the practitioner may recommend that you be patient and let it run its course.

Apply cool compresses to the infected eye(s) three to four times per a for 1015 minutes using a clean washcloth each time. This should help reduce itching and swelling and provide some comfort.

Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from your eyes In order to reduce or prevent recontamination.

A void rubbing your eyes to decrease irritation of the area. Wear sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to the light.

Avoid exposure to the irritants that may be causing the conjunctivitis.

Dispose of old eye makeup if the culture for bacteria is positive.

Use a clean pillowcase each night. (Pillowcase can be changed every other day and turned over nightly).

Avoid wearing contact lenses while you are using medications or if your eyes are uncomfortable. Cleanse contact lenses thoroughly.

Although many kinds of conjunctivitis are hard to prevent, there are measures that can be taken to decrease your risk of reacquiring or spreading it to someone else. These are listed below:

Do not share eye makeup or cosmetics of any kind with anyone. Avoid sharing washcloths or towels.

Wash hands frequently and keep away from the eyes.

Wear protective goggles (i.e., for swimming or working) if you must be exposed to chemicals that are irritating.

Do not use medication (eye drops, ointment, etc.) that has been prescribed for someone else.

A void swimming in non-chlorinated pools or stagnant lakes or ponds. Do not save medication - dispose of it when treatment is completed.

If any of the following problems should occur, notify your clinician:

Visual changes; Severe eye pain; Pain when moving eyes; Fever; No improvement with medication within 48-72 hours; Drainage continues after you have completed full course of medication; Roommates or other family members develop symptoms; Eyes become very sensitive to light.

Wash your hands before touching your eyes or your medications. Gently, pull your lower lid down with your finger. Look up toward the ceiling.

To instil drops: Drop medicine inside centre of your lower lid. Do not drop it on your eyeball. Close your eyes gently without squeezing the lids shut. Blink to distribute medication over the eye. To instil ointment: Starting in the corner of your eye closest to the nose, squeeze a thin ribbon of ointment along the inside of the lower lid. Close eyes gently without squeezing the lids shut. Roll eyes to distribute the medication over them.

Remove excess solution or ointment outside your eye with a clean tissue, using a separate tissue for each eye.

Wash hands after you have finished your medication, to avoid transmitting the infection to others.