Uppermill pharmacist IAN STRACHAN examines conjunctivitis
THIS IS a common condition which occurs when the conjunctiva (a thin layer of cells covering the front of your eye) becomes inflamed. There are three major types of conjunctivitis: Infective, allergic, and irritant conjunctivitis.
INFECTIVE
Most commonly caused by bacteria, viral, or even sexually transmitted infections. Viral conjunctivitis causes a watery discharge while the discharge from the bacterial type contains pus.
Most sufferers have been in close contact with someone who is already infected. It is important to wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with anyone with infective conjunctivitis, and avoid sharing towels and pillows.
Certain groups are more at risk of this type, including the young and elderly as the elderly have a weaker immune system. People who have experienced upper respiratory tract infections such as a cold are also more susceptible as are people with diabetes or sufferers with another eye condition known as blephratis. Finally people drequenting crowded spaces such as trains are also more vulnerable.
ALLERGIC
This is caused by allergens coming into contact with substances that provoke an immune response. There are different types of allergic conjunctivitis like those caused by pollens from trees, grasses, or even dust mites. These types are common in people who have allergies such as asthma.
A further type is known as contact conjunctivitis which can be caused by eye drops, make up, or even irritant chemicals. Contact lenses can give rise to this type in as many as 5% of wearers
IRRITANT
Common causes include chlorinated water in swimming pools, shampoos, stray eyelashes, smoke or fumes.
TREATMENT
Infective conjunctivitis can in many cases be treated with the help of your pharmacist. Most cases will clear within one to two weeks sometimes sooner without the need for treatment. Discuss the most appropriate course of action with your pharmacist, be it treatment or referral to your doctor.
Unusual symptoms such as severe pain, blurred vision or sensitivity to light should be referred immediately to your doctor or hospital. A quick response is the key to preventing further damage.
Here are some useful self-help tips
- Contact lens wearers should remove lenses until the signs and symptoms have gone. Avoid using lenses until 24 hours have elapsed from any treatment you may have had.
- Consider lubricant eye drops which ease soreness and stickiness in your eyes. As always, consult with your pharmacist as to options and suitability.
- Gently clear away sticky discharge from eyelids and lashes using cotton wool soaked in boiled water which has cooled.
- Wash hands regularly. This is particularly important with infected eyes and will help prevent the spread of infection to other people.
For allergic conjunctivitis there are several types of treatments available. Consult with your pharmacist as to the best choice of treatment for you.
Useful self help tips
- Remove contact lenses until signs and symptoms have gone.
- Do not rub your eyes even though your eyes may be itching, as rubbing can make it worse.
- Place a cotton compress over your eyes
- Wetting a flannel with cold water and holding it over your eyes will help to ease symptoms.
- Avoid exposure to the allergens such as pollen. Sunglasses may be beneficial at reducing exposure to pollen.
Finally,sufferers with seasonal conjunctivitis can benefit from antihistamine eye drops or tablets. Again speak with your pharmacist for consideration of treatment options, as some antihistamine eye drops may not be suitable for groups such as pregnancy or breast feeding mothers.
Next month we take a look at blisters.
You must be logged in to post a comment.