Types of Conjunctivitis

There are several forms of conjunctivitis, such like viral, bacterial, allergic conjunctivitis, etc. The common sign for all of them is an inflammation of conjunctiva, also known as mucous membrane. The inflammation actually affects the white part of the eye, and the reasons could be respectively foreign bodies, allergy, bacteria, virus, fungi and more.

Lets take a closer look of the different types of conjunctivitis and the different methods of recovery from this condition.  To learn more on Phoenix Lasik Surgeon options, please visit our lasik portal.

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by allergens like pollens, dust mites, cosmetics, and gaseous fumes. These irritants cause the body’s mast cells to produce histamines. This type of conjunctivitis always occurs in both eyes. Symptoms include redness, eye swelling and tearing. Treatment includes antihistamines, antisteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and corticosteroids. Lodoxamide and nedocromil are commonly prescribed to reduce eye irritation. Using cold compresses reduces eye irritation as well. The afflicted individual should avoid all known allergens.

Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is an allergic reaction of the eye that is typically caused by protein deposition on contact lenses. You will have to change the material on your contact lenses or ultimately discontinue the use of contact lens. Using eyedrops may reverse the allergic reaction. People with GPC are contraindicated from eye surgery like lasik sugery and/or similar eye laser surgery.

2. Irritant Conjunctivitis

Irritant or toxic conjunctivitis is caused by foreign objects or chemical splashes, such as caustic solutions, shampoo, dirt, chlorine, etc. The Mayo Clinic says that symptoms include redness, swelling, non-purulent discharge and possible sensitivity to light (photophobia). If the eye has come into contact with any chemicals, particularly alkalis, a doctor should be contacted immediately. The afflicted eye should be rinsed with clean, cool water for five minutes. Symptoms should begin disappearing 2-4 hours after washing.

3. Neonatal Conjunctivitis

Neonatal conjunctivitis affects approximately 1.6% of newborns in the U.S. It is a complication brought by a mother with STD to an infant. Symptoms include red eyes, puffiness, sensitivity, and watery, bloody, or thick pus-like drainage. It is caused by an incompletely opened tear duct, and if untreated, may lead to blindness. A physician should be contacted immediately.

4. Viral Conjunctivitis.

Most viral conjunctivitis is usually cause by viral illness like sore throat, cold and other upper respiratory tract infection. It will infect only one eye but may spread to the opposite eye. Symptoms include sclera being pinker in color, watery discharges, and a variable itch. There is no effective treatment for viral conjunctivitis but just like a common cold, it will just go away in a few days. Avoid scratching the eye and use cold compression to decrease eye irritation.

Viral conjunctivitis following lasik surgery should be examined and observed carefully and flap complications should be considered for management.

5. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria. Symptoms include irritation, redness, vision blurring, and a thick yellowish or whitish discharge which causes your eyelids after sleeping to stick together. Symptoms generally will disappear after three to four days.

The most common reason for conjunctivitis is a viral infection, although other types like bacterias, allergies, or different irritants also might occur. Remember that infections caused by bacteria or virus are contagious and not only can pass from person-to-person, but a person could be infected by contaminated objects and even water.