Allergic conjunctivitis is a very common disease. In the eyeball, there is a thin and transparent membrane that covers the sclera (the white part of the eye) and the inner side of the eyelids called conjunctiva. Allergic conjunctivitis is the abnormal reaction of this layer that forms the eyeball called conjunctiva. During episodes of conjunctivitis, this layer becomes inflamed and red, creating discomfort and eye fatigue.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms include:
⦁ Photophobia,
⦁ inflammation of the conjunctiva and inner eyelids.
⦁ itching of the eyes,
⦁ ocular redness
⦁ tearing
⦁ redness of the conjunctiva (white part of the eye).
CAUSES
The main cause of conjunctivitis is the abnormal reaction of the conjunctival layer of the eye. This layer becomes inflamed and reddened due to external factors such as mites, dust, humidity, climate, viruses, etc. Depending on the factors that produce this reaction in the eye, conjunctivitis may be:
1. Viral: viral conjunctivitis as the name says is caused by contact with a virus. Having the contact with the virus, causes this several symproms so it must be taken into account that it is a very contagious illness specially on the first 24hours of tratment. It is necessary to see a specialist in order to start the treatment. The treatment for this type of conjunctivitis is with the help of moisturizing eye drops to reduce eye redness, eyelid and eyelash hygiene is very important in any type of conjunctivitis to help prevent it from deriving into more complex diseases. Antibiotic eye drops are a good solution to prevent the development of bacterial conjunctivitis.
2.Bacterial: is a type of conjunctivitis caused by conjunctiva bacterial infection. The same as viral conjunctivitis, it is a very contagious infection. Avoid any direct contact of any object with the eye, such as wiping it with a towel. Even rubbing the eyes should be avoided. Sometimes, it can spread from one eye to the other. Unlike viral conjunctivitis, this infection produces a sticky discharge in the eyes. It may be difficult to open your eyes when you wake up in the morning. The treatment for this type of conjunctivitis is based on antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a specialist and moisturizing eye drops to help reduce eye redness.
3. Allergic: it is a type of conjunctivitis derived from contact with some phenomenon that causes the eye to react abnormally. This phenomenon can be for example dust, dust mites etc It usually disappears when the factor causing the allergy disappears. The Treatment is relieving with antihistamine eye drops and moisturizers to reduce eye discomfort. It may last for days or weeks or until the allergy provoking factor disappears. In case the factor is climatic or in the air such as dust, it is necessary to use adequate protection to cover the eyes such as sunglasses or industrial protection glasses and avoid contact with the factor that is causing the allergy,.
4. Chemical: it is a reaction due to exposure to toxic agents such as chlorine from the swimming pool or any chemical product in contact with the eyes. Treatment is similar with antihistamine eye drops in cases where the reaction is very severe and will serve to reduce inflammation.
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CATARACTS
4 Common Causes of Conjunctivitis and How to Treat Them
