Are your eyes red and itchy? You may be suffering from conjunctivitis. It is one of the most prevalent eye diseases in the world. In Mauritius, more than 900 cases of conjunctivitis have been reported. Although this disease is not dangerous, it is nevertheless very embarrassing, and even painful. It is easily treated, and can disappear after a few days of treatment. However, if conjunctivitis is not treated properly, there is a risk of losing visual acuity. Learn more about this disease, how to treat it, and what precautions you may take to avoid contaminating others.
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eye, more concretely, the transparent layer of cells that covers the eye and the inside of the eyelid are affected. The eye becomes red and irritable, you will also feel a burning sensation, among others. This inflammation may be from bacteria or may be viral. There are also conjunctivitis of allergic origin.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis
All conjunctivitis have as first symptoms red eyes and blurred vision. Allergic conjunctivitis attacks both eyes. They are swollen, itchy and will be watery. Irritation conjunctivitis does not necessarily affect both eyes. It occurs when in contact with an irritating product such as contact lenses or soap. The eye becomes red, and it scratches. Viral conjunctivitis is accompanied by the same symptoms listed above, in addition to clear flows. On the other hand, bacterial conjunctivitis particularly attacks an eye that is often stuck on waking because of purulent materials.
Be careful, conjunctivitis is very contagious. The best is to avoid direct contact with the person with this inflammation of the eyes, not to expose you to chemicals or allergens. In addition, you should avoid wearing contact lenses too long and above all, have a healthy lifestyle for example, wash your hands regularly.
How to treat this inflammation of the eyes?
The treatments differ, depending on the cause. Indeed, for irritation conjunctivitis, you just need to rinse the affected eye with water to remove the irritating substance. Drops of eye drops are enough to treat allergic conjunctivitis. However, with regard to viral conjunctivitis, there is no treatment. However, you can rinse the eye with saline. Know that the cold soothes the pain and itching related to this inflammation of the eye, use it! In infants, conjunctivitis must be treated with antibiotics, consult a doctor for this.
Conjunctivitis is very contagious, be careful when you are in contact with someone who suffers from it. Would you like to receive further information regarding eye diseases? Check out our blog for articles on eye health.
