Symptoms and Treatment of Conjunctivitis
September 14, 2009 by admin
Filed under Home Remedies
The conjunctiva is the membrane, which covers the sclera, which is otherwise known as the white part of the eye, and it also functions as the inner lining of the eyelids. When this portion of the eye is infected, it is known as conjunctivitis. This is also known as the pink eye in common terms. This is a loose tissue, which will cover the lower surface of the eyeball, and it also forms the inner layer of the eyelid. Pink eye is the term used to refer to all kinds of functions of the conjunctiva and not only the contagious forms. Sometimes chemicals like chlorine and soaps and air pollutants like smoke and fumes are also likely to cause some kind of irritation in the eye.
Conjunctivitis in Newborn Babies :
Newborn children are easily prone to contracting conjunctivitis. The bacteria or virus can sometimes pass through the birth canal and infect the eyes of the child. There are many newborn babies who have a tear duct, which is either narrow or blocked. In certain cases, it will heal on its own while in some cases it will aggravate and lead to conjunctivitis.
The severity of the infection is also dependent on the strength of the immune system of the patient. Sometimes the infection can aggravate and also hinder the eyesight of the person. There are two main kinds of conjunctivitis namely:
- Purulent Bacterial Conjunctivitis – This is caused by Neisseria Gonorrhoeae. This is an invasive infection, which can lead to perforations in the cornea.
- Chlamydial Conjunctivitis – This can lead to scarring of the conjunctiva and this lead to derangement of the eyelids as well as having ingrown eyelashes.
Causes of Conjunctivitis :
- Fungus
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
- Viral conjunctivitis
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Vernal conjunctivitis
- Trachoma
- Neonatal conjunctivitis
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis :
- Water like discharge coming from the eyes
- Itching and irritation in the eye
- Redness in the eyes
- Tears coming from the eyes
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Fuzziness in vision
- Swelling of the conjunctiva
Treatment of Conjunctivitis :
Immediate medical attention might be needed in certain cases of conjunctivitis depending on the severity of the situation. Non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs might have to be prescribed depending on the situation along with antihistamines. People who are suffering from allergic conjunctivitis might have to take topical steroidal drops. Antibiotic eye drops and ointments are being used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis.
Home Treatments for Conjunctivitis :
Goat’s milk has proved to be very useful in treating conjunctivitis. An ointment, which contains herbs as well as purified coconut water, can be used to treat conjunctivitis. Cold compresses can also be used in providing relief from the discomfort during conjunctivitis. Hands should be washed on a regular basis and the eyes should not be touched or rubbed. Washcloths, bed sheets, towels, pillowcases, handkerchiefs should not be shared during this time. The eyes should not be exposed to smoke, fumes and chemicals.
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