Conjunctivitis

It is the inflammation of the front layer of the eye and is also commonly known among the public as ‘pink eye’. It lines the inside of your eyelids and covers the white part in front of it. When we ask what conjunctivitis is, it mostly occurs as a result of excessive irritation, allergies, infection, or a foreign body. Its symptoms may include turning a red or pink color, a burning or itching sensation, light sensitivity, purulent or sticky discharge, and swelling in the eyelids. Most of the time it is highly contagious, so it is important to pay attention to hand hygiene.

The treatment of the disease depends on its cause. While the bacterial one is cured with antibiotic drops or ointments, the viral type heals on its own. The allergic type, on the other hand, can be treated with allergy medications or specific drops. Symptoms causing discomfort in the damaged area can be alleviated with drops or artificial tears. It should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional and the most appropriate method should be determined.

Why Does Conjunctivitis Occur?

• Viral infections: These are the most common cause of the disease. Colds and other respiratory viruses can lead to the problem. Certain viruses, such as the Herpes simplex virus, can also cause damage.

• Bakteriyel infections: Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause the microbe. These types are generally characterized by discharge.

• Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, or pet allergens can cause its symptoms. This type is mostly seasonal and comes with sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. If you need to be treated, get information from your doctor by asking questions like what conjunctivitis is and what its treatment is.

• Chemicals: A chemical problem can develop in the event of the entry of harsh soap, detergent, or an acidic or alkaline substance.

• Foreign bodies or irritants: The entry of dust, smoke, or a foreign body can lead to the disease.

• Contact lens use: Contact lenses can create an environment for the growth of bacteria, fungi, and amoebas. Improperly cleaning the lenses or wearing them for too long can lead to the disorder.

The symptoms of each type of damage may be slightly different, and each type requires different operation methods. It is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional when experiencing symptoms of discomfort or redness. Before starting, get information about the discomfort by asking your specialist doctor questions like what conjunctivitis is.

What is Conjunctivitis, How is it Treated?

• Viral: This type mostly resolves on its own and does not require a specific surgical operation. Applying cold compresses and keeping the eyes clean can provide relief.

• Bacterial: For the bacterial type, prescription antibiotic drops or ointments are generally used. Symptoms improve a few days after starting the procedure, but it is important that all medications are completed.

• Allergic: Allergic treatment involves avoiding allergens and alleviating the symptoms. There are many varieties of medications for this. They can reduce allergic reactions and prevent itching and watering.

• Chemical: This type is treated by immediately washing with plenty of water or an eye wash solution. In severe cases, it may be necessary to consult a doctor.

• Irritant (caused by foreign bodies or irritating substances): The irritant is generally repaired by cleaning the irritating substance and alleviating the complications.

The application of this problem is aimed at alleviating the symptoms and preventing the spread of the microbe. A person with this disease should pay attention to their personal hygiene to prevent transmitting it to other people. Hand washing and preventing direct contact are especially important. It is always important to seek advice from a healthcare professional for the repair of its symptoms and to ask questions like what conjunctivitis is and what its symptoms are.