Conjunctivitis

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What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It can affect one or both eyes and is characterised by redness, irritation, and discharge.

This is one of the most prevalent eye illnesses affecting people in the UK. It’s caused by a bacterial or viral infection (known as infective conjunctivitis), or an allergic reaction, and it’s highly contagious; catching it early and preventing it from spreading to others is critical.

£29.00

Are there different types of Conjunctivitis?

The following are the different types:

Viral Conjunctivitis:

Cause: Most often caused by viruses associated with the common cold (adenoviruses).
Symptoms: Red, watery eyes, often accompanied by other cold symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat. It is usually contagious and can spread easily.
Duration: Typically lasts 1–2 weeks.
Treatment: No specific treatment; it usually clears up on its own. Cool compresses and artificial tears may help relieve discomfort. Antiviral medications are rarely needed.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis:

Cause: Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae.
Symptoms: Red eyes with thick, yellow or green discharge, sometimes causing the eyelids to stick together, especially after sleep. It often affects both eyes.
Duration: Can last up to 10 days without treatment.
Treatment: Usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment, which shorten the duration of symptoms and prevent complications.

Allergic Conjunctivitis:

Cause: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or molds.
Symptoms: Red, itchy, watery eyes, often accompanied by sneezing and a runny nose. It usually affects both eyes.
Duration: Can last as long as exposure to the allergen persists.
Treatment: Antihistamine eye drops, oral antihistamines, and avoiding allergens are common treatments. Cool compresses can help relieve itching.

Is there treatment available for Conjunctivitis?

Cool the eye down using a cold flannel over the eye and wipe the eye down with boiled water that has been cooled, please use a separate wipe for each eye.

While conjunctivitis normally goes away on its own in a few weeks without medical treatment, in more severe cases, medication may be used to speed up the healing process. Antibiotics maybe required if the conjunctivitis has lasted more than two weeks and if the symptoms are severe. If unsure of diagnosis, our clinicians can help diagnose and treat the condition. Video consultations are recommended. If you do choose the telephone consultation option, please attach pictures.

Conjunctivitis

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Are there different types of Conjunctivitis?

The following are the different types:

What are the symptoms of Conjunctivitis?

The following are typical signs and symptoms:

Is there treatment available for Conjunctivitis?

Cool the eye down using a cold flannel over the eye and wipe the eye down with boiled water that has been cooled, please use a separate wipe for each eye.