Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers the eyeball. Although it is usually caused by an infection, it can also occur due to other factors. Depending on its nature, conjunctivitis is classified into four types:

• Viral conjunctivitis. Caused by an infection, usually by adenovirus, and highly contagious.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis. Occurs when bacteria, typically staphylococcus or streptococcus, enter the eye and infect the conjunctiva. It is also highly contagious.
• Allergic conjunctivitis. Unlike the previous types, it always affects both eyes and is not contagious, as it results from the body's immunoglobulin response to an allergen.
• Irritative conjunctivitis. Caused by the presence of a foreign object or a chemical substance. It is not contagious either.

The symptoms of conjunctivitis are bothersome and can last from seven to fourteen days. However, it is not a serious condition and usually does not affect vision. In cases of infectious conjunctivitis, certain precautions are recommended to prevent contagion.

Symptoms

Regardless of the type of conjunctivitis, the symptoms are common and easily recognizable. The most frequent include:

• Red eyes, as the blood vessels in the eyeball become more visible.
• Mucous or pus discharge, which can cause crusting that makes it difficult to open the eyelids upon waking.
• Photophobia (light sensitivity).
• Itchy eyes.
• Blurred vision.

Causes

The main cause of conjunctivitis is an infection by a virus or bacteria. In some cases, it can occur due to a foreign agent entering the eye or as an allergic reaction.

Conjunctivitis in babies and young children is often due to a blocked tear duct.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing conjunctivitis, such as:

• Contact with an infected person in cases of infectious conjunctivitis.
• Exposure to an allergen.
• Prolonged use of contact lenses, especially if they are not properly cleaned.
• Presence of a foreign object in the eye.

Complications

Complications from conjunctivitis are uncommon. The most severe cases can cause excessive inflammation, making it difficult to keep the eyes open and leading to pain.

Prevention

Infectious conjunctivitis, whether viral or bacterial, can be prevented similarly to a common cold:

• Avoiding contact with infected individuals.
• Not touching the eyes.
• Washing hands frequently.
• Not sharing towels or cosmetics that come into direct contact with the eyes.

Although more challenging, allergic conjunctivitis can be managed by taking antihistamines as prescribed by a doctor and avoiding allergens.

Irritative conjunctivitis can be prevented by following general eye hygiene recommendations, such as avoiding eye rubbing or not wearing contact lenses for extended periods.

Which Doctor Treats Conjunctivitis?

Ophthalmologists are the specialists responsible for diagnosing and treating conjunctivitis. It is also managed in pediatric or family medicine consultations.