Conjunctivitis is a common ophthalmic condition, though its exact prevalence remains undetermined. Since most of the conjunctiva directly contacts the external environment, it is susceptible to irritation from both infectious agents (such as bacteria, viruses, and chlamydia) and non-infectious factors (trauma, chemicals, and physical irritants). Furthermore, the conjunctiva is rich in blood vessels and lymphatic tissue, making it prone to sensitization by both internal and external antigens. It is commonly known as pink eye.
Experts explain that the conjunctiva acts as the eye's protective armor, covering the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye. Infection or allergic reactions to this tissue can trigger conjunctivitis.
Common symptoms include eye redness, itching, tearing, light sensitivity, and increased eye discharge. When the iris is affected, symptoms may also include a stinging pain and decreased vision.
Infectious conjunctivitis is categorized into bacterial and viral types, both possessing contagious properties. For instance, highly infectious "pink eye" is an acute bacterial conjunctivitis.Once infected, the discharge resembles pus and is quite abundant, often clumping eyelashes together upon waking. In contrast, viral conjunctivitis produces less discharge that looks somewhat like clear nasal mucus. Allergic conjunctivitis secretions may form long, stringy threads.
While anyone can develop conjunctivitis, the elderly, the frail, and those frequently working or staying in public spaces are particularly susceptible. Prevention involves frequent handwashing and face washing, avoiding rubbing eyes with hands or sleeves, and steering clear of crowded places during "pink eye" outbreaks.
Treatment must be tailored to the underlying cause.Bacterial conjunctivitis requires antimicrobial medications like tobramycin eye drops, not antiviral treatments such as acyclovir eye drops used for viral conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis necessitates anti-allergy medications. Note that some anti-allergy eye drops contain steroids, so prolonged use should be avoided to prevent serious complications like glaucoma.