What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is the inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva (the thin clear outer layer of the eye) and the eyelid, resulting in redness or a pinkish hue in the white part of the eye. It is a widespread eye infection1, particularly affecting children under five years old2, and is highly contagious if caused by bacterial or viral infections. As it can potentially affect vision, it is crucial to consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect you or your child has conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
The symptoms of conjunctivitis can vary depending on its type, but common signs include:3,4
- Red or pink eyes, affecting one or both eyes
- Redness behind the eyelid
- Puffy or swollen eyelids
- Excessive tearing
- Yellow-green discharge that forms a crust when sleeping
- Sensitivity to light
- A gritty sensation in the eyes
- Itchy or irritated eyes
Symptoms usually appear within 24 to 72 hours of infection and can last from two days to three weeks.
What Causes Conjunctivitis?
There are three types of conjunctivitis, each caused by different factors:5
- Infectious: Caused by bacterial or viral infections and can spread to others.
- Allergic: Triggered by allergens like pollen, and is not contagious.
- Chemical or irritant: Resulting from irritants such as chlorine or dust, and is also non-contagious. Babies may also develop conjunctivitis due to blocked tear ducts.6
Treatment for Conjunctivitis
Treatment options vary depending on the type of conjunctivitis. Your pharmacist can guide you on the best course of action:7
- Infectious conjunctivitis: Typically treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications.8,9
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Managed with antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops.10
- Chemical/irritant conjunctivitis: Requires flushing the eye with clean water and avoiding further exposure to irritants.111
When Should You See a Doctor?
It’s essential to visit a doctor if:
- Home remedies don’t alleviate symptoms.
- You experience vision issues or sensitivity to light.
- You feel something is stuck in your eye.
Prevention of Conjunctivitis
There are several effective steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading conjunctivitis, depending on its type. Here are some prevention strategies for each form:12
Preventing Infectious Conjunctivitis
Good Hygiene: The most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious conjunctivitis, especially bacterial and viral types, is through proper hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after touching your eyes or face. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can introduce bacteria or viruses to the surface of the eye. Avoid Close Contact: If you or someone you know has conjunctivitis, avoid close contact, particularly during the contagious phase, which lasts until symptoms improve. Do not share personal items such as towels, tissues, or makeup, as these can carry the infection. Disinfect Surfaces: Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, to remove potential bacteria or viruses that can cause conjunctivitis. Dispose of Contaminated Items: If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, it’s essential to dispose of any contaminated makeup, such as mascara or eyeliner, and avoid sharing these items with others. Throw away old eye makeup to avoid reinfection.
Preventing Allergic Conjunctivitis
There are several effective steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading conjunctivitis, depending on its type. Here are some prevention strategies for each form:12
Good Hygiene: The most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious conjunctivitis, especially bacterial and viral types, is through proper hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after touching your eyes or face. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can introduce bacteria or viruses to the surface of the eye. Avoid Close Contact: If you or someone you know has conjunctivitis, avoid close contact, particularly during the contagious phase, which lasts until symptoms improve. Do not share personal items such as towels, tissues, or makeup, as these can carry the infection. Disinfect Surfaces: Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, to remove potential bacteria or viruses that can cause conjunctivitis. Dispose of Contaminated Items: If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, it’s essential to dispose of any contaminated makeup, such as mascara or eyeliner, and avoid sharing these items with others. Throw away old eye makeup to avoid reinfection.
Preventing Chemical or Irritant Conjunctivitis
Wear Protective Eyewear: If you are exposed to chemicals, such as when cleaning or working with irritants, always wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from splashes or fumes. This is especially important when working in environments with high dust levels or pollutants. Avoid Pool Chemicals: When swimming in chlorinated pools, consider wearing swim goggles to prevent chlorine from irritating your eyes. Also, avoid swimming in poorly maintained pools with high chemical levels. Rinse Eyes Immediately: If you come into contact with a chemical or irritant that causes discomfort in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes with clean, lukewarm water or saline solution. This will help remove the substance and reduce irritation.
Preventing Conjunctivitis in Babies
Clear Blocked Tear Ducts: If your baby has a blocked tear duct, you can help prevent conjunctivitis by gently massaging the area around the tear duct (as recommended by your pediatrician) to help clear the blockage and encourage proper tear drainage. Monitor Eye Discharge: If your baby’s eyes are producing unusual discharge or showing signs of redness or swelling, consult with a pediatrician to ensure that the cause is not an infection that could lead to conjunctivitis.