Causes
Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae are the most common bacterial organisms that cause conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is most frequently associated with adenovirus. Conjunctivitis can also be a result of allergic reactions, exposure to chemicals or toxins, foreign body, eyelash misposition, or even dry eye.
Symptoms
The most common sign and symptoms of conjunctivitis are red eyes, pain, and discharge of pus or watery fluid from the eye. An evaluation of conjunctivitis includes examination of the eyelid, underneath the upper and lower eyelid, and tear ducts.
Complications
Conjunctivitis can cause light sensitivity, chronic eye infection, ulcer of the cornea, corneal scarring and corneal inflammation. In severe cases, conjunctivitis can affect vision.
Treatment
Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic drops. Patients should also replace contact lenses, was hands frequently, and take other steps to reduce reinfection.
Viral conjunctivitis treatment is aimed at symptomatic relief. Antibiotic drops will not cure viral conjunctivitis. The body’s immune system will take care of viral infections.
Symptomatic treatment involves the use of artificial tears to lubricate the eyes four times a day or more. The area around the eye can be treated with a wet washcloth to relieve discomfort.
To prevent spreading infection to other people or the other eye then wash hands well, avoid sharing items such as makeup and do not touch the other eye. Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be spread from eye to eye or person to person.
Conjunctivitis may take up to 3 weeks to resolve.
Contact us
In case of urgent medical care assistance, AfterOurs Urgent Care offers immediate telemedicine services, where medical providers are available to offer assistance. Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms requiring urgent medical attention can simply book their appointment with AfterOurs Urgent Care to directly talk to an expert. If your medical issue is not appropriate for telemedicine, we will let you know and refer you to an in-person facility.
When to visit a doctor:
If you notice swelling or redness near the eye region, you should see a medical provider in order to avoid possible serious complications.
Treatment for conjunctivitis is available at AfterOurs Urgent Care.
For more information on conjunctivitis, see the following website:
https://www.afteroursinc.com/