CONJUNCTIVITIS

Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as 'pink eye', is an infection or inflammation of the thin clear membrane over the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. The blood vessels become inflamed, giving the eyes the characteristic red or pink colour. There are several types of conjunctivitis, each with their own causes, symptoms and treatment. Not usually a serious health risk, it is generally contagious while the symptoms are present, and spreads easily and rapidly from person to person.

What causes conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis may be caused by bacteria, or a virus, usually the one that causes the common cold, or be an allergic reaction, for example to organisms in the environment, or a reaction to an irritant which enters the eyes.

What are the symptoms?

While the causes may differ, the symptoms of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis overlap and are often similar. These include redness of the eyes, itching, burning, tearing and a discharge from the eyes. Viral conjunctivitis usually starts in one eye and can spread to the other eye. It is usually associated with a cold or viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. The discharge from the eyes is watery, unlike the thick discharge in bacterial conjunctivitis, which builds up overnight and leaves a crusting of the eyelids and eyelashes. Bacterial conjunctivitis affects both eyes and can start with a respiratory or ear infection.

Allergic conjunctivitis is typically characterised by itching, watering and a feeling of irritation. It may occur during certain seasons of the year or be present all year round, depending on the allergen. Sometimes exposure to irritants such as smoke, swimming pool chemicals or chemical fumes result in the red, burning, watery eyes of reactive conjunctivitis.

How is conjunctivitis treated?

The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause. Like the common cold, there is no specific treatment for viral conjunctivitis which needs to run its course and should clear up after 7 to 10 days. Antibiotic eye drops or ointment are the most common treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis, which should begin to improve within 24 hours of beginning treatment. If it is the result of an irritant, it is likely to resolve without treatment within a few days. An over-the-counter antihistamine or one prescribed by a doctor is generally effective in dealing with allergic symptoms, including allergic conjunctivitis.

Symptomatic relief of the discomfort which occurs with conjunctivitis can be achieved with a number of home remedies. A cold or warm compress applied to the eyes a few times a day is soothing. A teabag steeped in boiling water, cooled and placed over the eyes serves the same purpose. Some types of tea, for example green tea, rooibos and chamomile, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce swelling. Salt water or saline is similar in composition to tears, which are the eye's natural cleansing method. Artificial tears may help to relieve itching and burning of the eyes. Ask your optometrist to recommend the most appropriate drops for your symptoms. Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which could make it an effective home remedy for certain eye conditions. However, more research on this is necessary, and it should not be used without consultation with a doctor or optometrist. Avoid wearing contact lenses until the symptoms have eased.

Is it necessary to see a doctor?

Most cases of mild conjunctivitis get better with or without treatment and don't cause any long-term problems. Contact your optometrist or doctor if the eyes are painful, there is blurred vision or sensitivity to light, or if the symptoms become worse or do not clear up after a few days with or without treatment.

Can you prevent conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is easily spread from person to person. Practicing good hygiene is one of the best ways to stop its transmission. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Avoid touching your eyes. Use clean tissues to wipe your face and eyes and discard immediately after use. Wipe discharge from the eyes using cotton wool and warm water. Don't share towels. Replace makeup that may have become contaminated. Keep children who have conjunctivitis out of school until the symptoms have cleared.

Is conjunctivitis a symptom of COVID-19?

Conjunctivitis has been found to occur in 1% - 3% of people with COVID-19. While there is overlap between some of the symptoms of COVID-19 and seasonal flu and colds, the symptoms of conjunctivitis on their own, without the other associated symptoms of COVID-19 are highly unlikely to indicate COVID-19. One researcher is quoted as saying: "pink eye without the symptoms of fever or a continuous cough are an unusual presentation of COVID-19 infection."