What is Conjunctivis?

Conjunctivitis is commonly referred to as pink or red eye. It is characterized by the inflammation of the mucous membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelids. This membrane also covers the cornea and is known as the conjunctiva. This condition shows the most prevalent ocular disorder globally and is notably contagious. The etiology of conjunctivitis is linked to various pathogens. These include viruses such as herpes simplex, Molluscum contagiosum, and the measles virus. Bacteria like Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes A-C also contribute. Additionally, fungal agents such as Candida albicans play a role. Parasitic organisms like Ascaris lumbricoides, Schistosoma haematobium, and Taenia solium also contribute to developing this condition.

Transmission occurs through the following means:

• Direct contact with ocular discharge
• Contact with secretions from the upper respiratory tract of an infected individual via contaminated fingers, clothing, and other objects
• Mechanical transmission by flies, which can carry the disease from one infected person to another The disease predominantly affects children.

Factors that predispose individuals to the disease include:

• Insufficient personal hygiene
• Lack of adequate water supply
• Overcrowded living conditions
• Poor environmental sanitation

Clinical Features and Diagnosis of Conjunctivitis

Important Symptoms

Important symptoms of conjunctivitis can include:

• Experience of a foreign body like sand presence in the eyes, accompanied by a scratching or burning feeling, may lead to a perception of fullness in the ocular region. Additionally, symptoms may include itching and sensitivity to light.
• Eyelid swelling is observed, accompanied by watery eyes that exhibit a gritty sensation. There is an absence of significant pain or visual impairment. In instances where pain is present, it is likely that the cornea is also involved. Typically, both eyes are impacted.

Other Important Controversial Signs

• Hyperemia – Lacrimation
• Exudate (purulent discharge)
• Pseudoptosis (sagging of the upper eyelid)
• Untreated trachoma may result in vision loss  
• It is important to rule out other causes of red eye, especially the presence of a foreign body in the eye.

Conclusion

It is important to note that, many diseases are similar or interact with their symptoms. So due to the complexity of differentiating the symptoms of conjunctivitis from other eye infections, it is better to go to the hospital for immediate treatment. Remember, delay in getting professional treatment, this disease leads to blindness.

Prevention is better than cure. So pay attention to the hygiene of hands and eyes. It is recommended not to touch the eyes with unclean hands. Always use a clean tissue to make eye contact or use the part of the hand that does not come into contact with people when you shake hands. Proper personal hygiene first, can help in eradication of many contagious diseases.