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Conjunctivitis, commonly known as eye flu, is a very common eye condition that causes inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. While eye flu is usually not a serious condition and clears up on its own within a week or two, it can be highly contagious and cause significant discomfort if left untreated. In this article, we will explore more about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of conjunctivitis.
Causes of Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis has multiple potential causes that can be broadly classified as viral, bacterial and allergic.
Viral conjunctivitis: Adenovirus is the most common cause of viral conjunctivitis worldwide. It spreads through contact with infected eye secretions. Enterovirus 70 and coxsackievirus A24 are some other viruses that can cause eye flu. Viral conjunctivitis is often accompanied by symptoms of the common cold.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae are common causes. Bacterial conjunctivitis often follows viral infections when the eyes’ defenses are down. It may also develop after eye injuries, contaminated contact lenses or poor hygiene.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergies to substances like pollen, dust, animal dander etc. can cause chronic recurring redness and itching of the eyes due to an inflammatory reaction.
Other less common causes include chemicals or foreign objects entering the eye, chlamydia infection, neonates with gonorrhea and certain medications.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
The hallmark symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
– Redness of the white part of the eye
– Eye discharge that may be watery, thick and ropey or pus-like depending on the cause
– Itchy, irritated, sore, scratchy feeling in the eyes
– Swelling of the eyelids
– Increased tears and crustiness around the eyelashes upon waking
– Blurred vision
With viral conjunctivitis, symptoms are generally milder but are highly contagious. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually causes more severe discharge, pain and swelling. Allergic conjunctivitis can cause intermittent itching, burning and watering.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor can examine the eyes to look for tell-tale signs like redness, discharge and sclera edema. They may also test the discharge for presence of certain organisms under a microscope to determine the cause.
Viral conjunctivitis in most cases resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks without treatment. Cool compresses and artificial tears can provide temporary relief. Antibiotic eye drops may speed up recovery for bacterial conjunctivitis and prevent complications. Steroid eye drops are prescribed for severe allergic conjunctivitis. In some cases, oral medications and allergy testing may also be advised. Contact lenses must be avoided until complete recovery. Surgery is rarely needed.
Prevention of Conjunctivitis
To prevent the spread of contagious conjunctivitis:
– Practice good hand hygiene, especially after touching or rubbing the eyes
– Avoid sharing personal items like towels, tissues and washcloths
– Throw away contaminated items like used eye makeup
– Clean and disinfect surfaces in contact with eye discharge
– See a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks
For allergies, identify and avoid triggers as much as possible. Use air purifiers and vacuum regularly to reduce indoor allergens. Get vaccinated against prevention of bacterial causes. Wearing eye protection during risky activities can prevent foreign bodies entering the eyes. Proper contact lens hygiene is important too. With some precautions, the risk of contracting conjunctivitis can be significantly reduced.
In Conclusion
Conjunctivitis though a common eye condition can be quite irritating and interfere with daily activities if symptoms are severe. However, most cases resolve on their own or with simple treatments in a short period. Identifying the cause helps guide appropriate management. Following basic hygiene practices and being prudent about personal contact helps break infection transmission chains. With awareness and timely medical intervention if needed, one need not let eye flu get the better of them.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
