Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva or mucous membrane connecting the inner eyelid and eyeball. It is a very common eye infection. Though not serious in itself, it may give rise to complications such as the ulceration of the cornea.

Causes and symptoms

A chronic state of redness of the eye is common among people whose eyes are much exposed to irritation from dust, smoke, cold winds etc. Strain on the eyes because of errors (where the patient needs glasses in order to have a normal vision) of refraction may cause the eye to appear red, as a cold in the head would lead to congestion of the conjunctiva.

The most characteristic sign of conjunctivitis is that the affected eye becomes red or blood shot because of the dilatation of the numerous vessels which ramify over the conjunctival surface. The swelling of the conjunctiva in severe cases may be marked, and a thickened fold may form round the edge of the cornea. Subjective symptoms vary greatly; in some cases, only a feeling of having sand in the eyes is experienced, whereas in others there is acute pain. Photophobia or dread of light is a common symptom. There is a discharge of mucous from the eyes which may deteriorate into pus. Usually both the eyes are affected even though the trouble starts in one eye. It sometimes causes the eyelids to stick together during sleep.

In addition to simple acute conjunctivitis, there are other more serious varieties; ophthalmia of the new born which may attack infants a few days after they are born; trachoma or granular conjunctivitis which is a persistent and severe form of the disease; follicular conjunctivitis and phlectenular conjunctivitis which usually attacks weak and ill-nourished children.

Dietary measures

The patient should avoid eye strain. Dark goggles may be worn during the day. The bowels should not be allowed to become costive. Mild laxative may be taken recourse to if constipation develops. Sour and hot substances should be avoided.

Treatment

Irrigation solutions such as boric acid temporarily relieve irritation of the eye. Usually medications that are available in ointment form or drop form is prescribed. They are antibiotics like erythromycin, gentamycin and sulfacetamide which are useful in relieving infection and inflammation. One should also avoid wearing contact lenses or any other allergy causing agents or irritants.