Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva: the thin membrane that covers the white region of the eye. This irritation causes the dilation of blood vessels causing, among others symptoms, redness, swelling of the eyelids, itching and tearing.
It has an infectious or allergic origin or it can be result exposure to any irritating agent. It occurs in only one or both eyes and, obviously, only in the first case (infection) does it it will be contagious, lasting about three days, when the treatment is done, and fifteen days in the absence of this. In the two other cases mentioned (allergy and exposure to some irritating agent), the removal of the irritating agent will stop the reaction.
The absence or not of secretion and, if it has, its characteristics, is one of the main factors that will indicate the type of conjunctivitis that is manifesting in the individual. In case of allergy and chemical irritation, for example, the secretion is clear and sticky. At viral conjunctivitis, the most frequent, there is more tearing than secretion, which is light in color, and a pseudomembrane is formed in the eyelid. Finally, in the case of a
For treatment, the ophthalmologist may indicate, in addition to compresses with cold water, to relieve symptoms, sodium chloride-based eye drops. Antibiotic products can be prescribed in cases of infectious conjunctivitis; and antihistamines in allergic conditions.
It is very important not to use drugs or boricada water without medical assistance, as these can further accentuate inflammation. Wash your hands frequently and do not scratch your eyes, as well as to prevent this last potential problem prevents contamination from the other eye or from other people. For this same reason, you should stop sharing makeup, towels, swimming pools and contact lenses.
Others care include not touching the bottle of ointment or eye drops and washing your hands before and after applying the medication. Paying attention to these issues, conjunctivitis can be cured in around five days, without other people being infected.
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By Mariana Araguaia
Graduated in Biology
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
ARAGUAIA, Mariana. "Conjunctivitis"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/doencas/conjuntivite.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.