Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis) - causes, symptoms and treatment

Eye inflammation - Symptoms and treatment | Recetas Medicas

Eye inflammation, or conjunctivitis as is the medical name, is a commonly occurring condition that affects people of all ages. The disease is easily transmitted, especially between children because they often play very close to each other. Here we go through what causes eye inflammation, common symptoms of the disease, how it is treated and what you can do to avoid getting infected.

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What is eye inflammation?

Eye inflammation occurs when the conjunctiva, the thin transparent mucous membrane that covers the whites of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids, becomes inflamed. It can affect one or both eyes and is often a reaction to an infection, allergy or that you got something in the eye that caused a wound. Eye inflammation can be uncomfortable but usually heals on its own within five days without treatment.

Causes of eye inflammation

You can get eye inflammation for several reasons, for example:

• Viruses and bacteria: The most common cause of eye inflammation. The problems often occur in connection with a viral infection, such as colds, flu and covid-19. Bacterial eye inflammation can occur through direct infection or as a result of another infection.
• Allergies: Allergic conjunctivitis occurs as a reaction to allergens such as pollen, animal hair or dust.
• Irritation: Debris, smoke, chlorinated water or prolonged use of contact lenses can irritate the eye and lead to inflammation.
• Dry eyes: Dry eyes are more susceptible to infections.
• Autoimmune diseases: In rare cases, eye inflammation can be linked to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of eye inflammation

The symptoms can vary depending on the cause of the inflammation. Here are some common symptoms of eye inflammation:

• Irritated and red eyes
• Itching and burning
• Increased tear flow
• Puffiness or puffy eyes, especially in the morning
• Sensation of something rubbing in the eye

Other possible causes

Many of the symptoms of eye inflammation are similar to those of other eye diseases. Eyelid inflammation, allergies and hives can irritate the eye and cause problems such as watery eyes, chafing and redness.

Treatment of eye inflammation

You can often treat an eye infection yourself with simple measures:

• Cleaning: Wash the eyes gently with a wet compress or soft cotton ball to remove any secretions. Be sure to wash your hands first. Wash from the outer corner of the eye towards the inner corner to avoid bacteria and dirt getting into the eye. If the eye is completely stuck together, you can leave the compress on the eye for a few minutes to dissolve it.
• Over-the-counter medicines: At pharmacies there are various over-the-counter medicines you can try, for example eye drops and ointment. Use them to relieve irritation and moisturize the eyes.
• Avoid things that irritate the eyes: Use glasses instead of contact lenses as long as you have symptoms. Change to a new pair of lenses when the inflammation has healed to avoid re-infection. Also, avoid touching the eyes and limit exposure to allergens if possible.

Most people do not need further treatment for eye inflammation, but for severe or long-term infections caused by bacteria, doctors may prescribe antibiotics in the form of eye drops.

Preventive measures

Here are some things you can do to reduce the risk of contracting eye inflammation.

• Wash your hands regularly to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
• Use separate towels and avoid sharing personal items such as mascara.
• Change towels and pillowcases often to keep bacteria and viruses at bay.

When should you seek care?

An eye inflammation usually goes away on its own within five days. Contact healthcare if you experience any of the following:

• You have discomfort that does not go away within 5 to 7 days.
• You have severe inflammation with a lot of wart formation.
• You have severe problems in only one of your eyes. Seek emergency care if you have eye inflammation and at the same time experience the following symptoms:
• The eye becomes very sensitive to light.
• The eye becomes red, hurts a lot or rubs and you simultaneously experience impaired vision.
• You get a fever and pain in combination with the eye inflammation.
• You get blisters on the skin in combination with the eye inflammation.

Eye inflammation in children

Eye inflammation is something that often affects children, especially those who go to preschool or school. Eye inflammation spreads easily between children because they often play close to each other. The symptoms of eye inflammation in children are the same as in adults; the eyes become red and swollen, they run more than usual, and it may form which makes the eyes stick together, especially in the morning. The child may also feel irritated in the eyes and rub them often, which further increases the risk of infection spreading.

As a parent, it is important to try to prevent the infection from spreading. You can do this by encouraging your child to wash their hands often and not to let the child share personal items, such as towels, with others. If your child shows signs of eye inflammation, it may be a good idea to keep the child home from preschool or school until the worst symptoms subside, usually after a few days.

To take care of eye inflammation in children, you can gently clean around the child's eyes with a soft cotton ball that you moisten with lukewarm water. It may need to be done several times a day if there is a lot of var. When the worst inflammation has healed and the eye is no longer so persistent, the child can go back to preschool or school.

Frequently asked questions

How is eye inflammation contagious?

Eye inflammation is mainly transmitted through direct contact with infected tear fluid or from an infected person's eye. Indirect transmission can also occur via items such as towels, pillowcases or make-up.

How long does eye inflammation last?

Eye inflammation caused by viruses or bacteria can be contagious as long as symptoms such as swelling and red eyes persist, often a few days up to two weeks.

Can I work with eye inflammation?

If you do not have a fever or serious symptoms and can maintain good hygiene to minimize the spread of infection, you can work despite eye inflammation. However, you should avoid work if your job requires close contact with other people.

Can children with eye inflammation go to preschool or school?

Children with mild symptoms and no fever can often go to preschool or school, provided good hand hygiene is followed to minimize the spread of infection. In the case of severe seizures or general disturbances, the child should stay at home.

Is there a home remedy for eye inflammation?

Gently cleaning the infected eye with a wet compress and lukewarm water can help relieve symptoms. Use of lubricating eye drops can also help.

Can I exercise with eye inflammation?

Yes, it is possible to exercise with eye inflammation provided you feel healthy enough and your symptoms are not aggravated by physical activity. It is important to listen to your body and adapt the training to how you feel. Also make sure to maintain good hygiene and avoid sharing towels or exercise equipment to reduce the risk of spreading infection.