Conjunctivitis

Symptoms & Treatment for Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, sometimes referred to as red eye or pink eye, is a common eye condition in the EU. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, a viral infection, or an allergic reaction. It is highly contagious. It is essential to identify it quickly and prevent it from spreading to others.

 

Do not delay getting help if you suspect you have conjunctivitis or any other eye condition.

 

Our doctors can quickly evaluate your condition and provide the appropriate medication to expedite healing.

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can be caused by either a virus or bacteria (infective conjunctivitis), an allergic reaction (allergic conjunctivitis), or by an object lodged in the eye (irritant conjunctivitis). Irritant conjunctivitis can be caused when something gets stuck in the eye and causes discomfort.

 

Irrespective of the source, conjunctivitis is a condition in which the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane layer surrounding the eye, becomes inflamed, resulting in various uncomfortable symptoms.

 

You have a higher chance of getting conjunctivitis if you have been in close contact with someone currently suffering from it. As a result, it is essential to be aware of the condition's contagious nature and take necessary precautions to avoid spreading it.

 

In addition, people with weakened immune systems, diabetes, and those using certain types of steroids may be more susceptible to conjunctivitis. Furthermore, young children and older people are more likely to develop this eye condition.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Generally, conjunctivitis is characterised by two main symptoms: redness in the eye and discharge from the eye.

 

Eye Redness: This results from inflammation in the eye, causing blood vessels to expand and become more visible.

 

Discharge: Individuals experiencing conjunctivitis will notice heightened activity in the cells and glands responsible for tear and mucus production. This excess increases water and mucus, often presenting with a yellowish hue.

 

 

Conjunctivitis can also cause the following symptoms:

 

  • Eye discomfort or a sensation of burning

  • Perception of grittiness or a rough texture upon blinking

  • Accumulation of adhesive mucus within the eye, often manifesting overnight

  • Swelling of the lymph node situated at the front of the ear

Treatment for Conjunctivitis

In most cases, conjunctivitis will go away without medical treatment within a few weeks. However, if the condition is more serious, medication may be necessary to help it clear up. The type of medication required will depend on the cause of the conjunctivitis.

 

Antibiotics may be prescribed as eye drops for conjunctivitis that has not gone away after two weeks or is causing severe symptoms.

 

It is recommended to avoid contact lenses and to use lubricating eye drops regularly in order to alleviate discomfort caused by eye symptoms. Additionally, it is essential to clean and clear any discharge with a damp cotton pad to keep your eyes healthy.

 

If you have conjunctivitis or any other eye infection, don't wait. Speak with one of our experienced doctors right away. At Mobi Doctor, our doctors can accurately diagnose your condition, provide you with a treatment plan, and prescribe the proper medication to help you get better if needed.