Conjunctivitis symptoms

Written by Zhou Qing
Ophthalmology
Updated on September 12, 2024
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Conjunctivitis is an inflammation that occurs in the thin layer of structure on the surface of the white eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can be caused by infections such as bacteria, viruses, chlamydia, fungi, parasites, etc., and by environmental factors like sand, smoke, ultraviolet exposure, and chemical injuries from acids, alkalis, or toxic gases. It can also be an inflammatory response of the conjunctiva due to allergic or systemic diseases including tuberculosis, syphilis, thyroid disorders, or surrounding tissues of the eye such as the cornea, sclera, eyelids, nasal cavity, and sinuses. Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include red eyes, a sensation of a foreign body in the eye, burning, itching, photophobia (sensitivity to light), tearing, and increased discharge. Sometimes it can also cause eye pain.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Does conjunctivitis require infusion?

Generally, conjunctivitis does not require intravenous treatment. Treatment primarily focuses on targeting the cause and applying local medications, with systemic medication used when necessary. During the acute phase, it is crucial to avoid bandaging the affected eye. The most basic method of administering medication for conjunctivitis is through eye drops, along with the application of eye ointment before sleep. When there is substantial secretion in the conjunctival sac, it needs to be flushed. In severe cases of conjunctivitis, such as gonococcal conjunctivitis, systemic antibiotics are required in addition to local medications.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
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Does conjunctivitis require isolation?

Infectious conjunctivitis can lead to epidemic infection, therefore it is essential to take preventive measures. Conjunctivitis is often spread through contact, thus it is advocated to frequently wash hands and faces, and avoid wiping eyes with hands or sleeves. Patients with infectious conjunctivitis must be isolated, and any toiletries used by the patients must be isolated and disinfected. Medical staff should also wash and disinfect their hands after examining patients to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Zheng Xin
Ophthalmology
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How to deal with acute conjunctivitis?

Acute conjunctivitis can also be called pink eye. It is an acute inflammatory reaction of the conjunctiva, mainly caused by bacterial infection, commonly by Staphylococcus aureus. The treatment mainly involves local anti-infection treatment, using antibiotic eye drops such as chloramphenicol eye drops, ofloxacin eye drops, or tobramycin eye drops. While using topical antimicrobial drugs, it is important to avoid rubbing the eyes with hands and avoid prolonged use of the eyes.

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Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
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How to distinguish between viral conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis mainly presents with itching and conjunctival edema, generally without obvious secretions. Viral conjunctivitis usually has watery secretions and lacks significant itching. In terms of treatment, viral conjunctivitis is primarily treated with antiviral medications, such as aciclovir eye drops and ganciclovir eye drops. The treatment for allergic conjunctivitis mainly involves steroid eye drops and non-steroidal eye drops, and also requires the use of anti-inflammatory eye drops. Neither type of conjunctivitis should be treated with warm compresses. For allergic conjunctivitis, it is also important to avoid allergens, while for viral conjunctivitis, it is crucial to be aware of any visual impairments. (Note: The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Ophthalmology
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Can conjunctivitis heal on its own?

Conjunctivitis can be classified as hyperacute, acute or subacute, and chronic, based on the speed of onset. Based on the severity of the condition, it can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Acute conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting, with a duration of about two weeks. After treatment with sensitive antibiotics, recovery can occur within a few days. Chronic conjunctivitis is not self-limiting and is more challenging to treat.