The Eyes Have It

Conjunctivitis, or pinkeye, can certainly be cause for red alert. The ailment, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, can be contagious, is irritating but for the most part is not serious and responds well to medication. Conjunctivitis, which affects the membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelid, is one of the most common eye diseases, particularly in children. It is known to spread quickly in settings such as schools and day care.

The symptoms are obvious:

* Pink- or red-looking eyes.

* Swelling around the eyes.

* Itching or burning.

* Tearing or a sticky discharge from the eye that causes the lids to stick together, particularly upon awakening.

It has several causes, including allergic reaction, chemicals, viruses and bacteria:

* Pollen, dust, mold, smoke and solutions used with soft contact lenses can cause inflammation. If you are affected by one or more of these or other irritants, avoid them. If that’s not possible and one or both of your eyes become red, watery or itchy, try cold compresses and eyedrops. Soft-contact lens wearers who suffer from chronic conjunctivitis should talk to their doctors about switching to rigid gas permeable lenses or discontinue contact lens wear, either temporarily or permanently.

* Adenovirus, often associated with an upper respiratory infection, is spread by coughing, sneezing or direct contact with infected surfaces, such as pillows. Generally, infection via virus will clear up on its own. To avoid being infected by others (infected people would be wise to stay home from work or school), wash your hands often, using warm water and soap. Don’t share eye medications, washcloths or eye cosmetics. Keep your hands away from your eyes. Remove makeup with paper tissues and use a tissue only once.

* Infection via bacteria can be treated with antibiotic drops, which can relieve symptoms in a few days. More serious cases may require oral antibiotics.

Again, conjunctivitis usually isn’t serious. But you might want to see a doctor at the first signs; sometimes symptoms of more serious diseases resemble those of conjunctivitis, so it’s best to have an eye exam to rule out other problems.

Source: StayWell Co.