Conjuctivitis
(Bacterial)
The conjunctiva
is a clear membrane that is the tough, leathery outer coat of
the eye. The white of the eye actually lies behind the conjunctiva.
The conjuctiva has many small blood vessels and it serves to
lubricate and protect the eye while the eye moves in its socket.
When the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, this is called CONJUNCTIVITIS.
Conjunctivitis can have many causes, such as bacteria (as in
"pink eye"), viruses, chemicals, allergies, and more.
In many cases it is difficult to determine the primary cause
for the inflammation. One of the most common is BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS.
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS is associated with swelling of the lid
and a yellowish discharge. Sometimes it causes the eye to itch
and a mattering of the eyelids, particularly upon waking. The
conjunctiva appears red and sometimes thickened. Often both eyes
are involved.
The bacteria most commonly at fault are the Staphylococcus, the
Streptococcus, and H. Influenza. This disease is very contagious,
and can be easily transmitted by rubbing the eye and then infecting
household items, such as towels or handkerchiefs. It is common
that entire families become infected.
Conjunctivitis can be directly cured with treatment. Usually
antibiotic drops and compresses ease the discomfort and clear
up the infection in just a few days. In a few cases, the inflammation
does not respond well to the initial treatment with eye drops.
In those rare cases a second visit to the office should be made
and other measures undertaken. In severe infection, oral antibiotics
are necessary. Covering the eye is not a good idea because a
cover provides protection for the germs causing the infection.
If left untreated, conjunctivitis can create serious complications,
such as infections in the cornea, lids, and tear ducts.
Certain precautions can to taken to avoid the disease and stop
its spread. Careful washing of the hands, the use of clean handkerchiefs,
and avoiding contagious individuals are all helpful. Little children
frequently get conjunctivitis because of their poor hygiene.
