Context: Amid heavy rainfall in Delhi and nearby areas over the past few weeks, multiple cases of conjunctivitis are being reported in the National Capital Region.
About Conjunctivitis:
- Conjunctivitis, commonly known as Pink Eye, is an infection or inflammation of the transparent membrane that covers the eyelid and eyeball. This membrane is called the conjunctiva.
- Why do eyes appear Pink?
- When small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen and irritated, they’re more visible.
- This is what causes the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink.
Signs and symptoms:
Symptoms include redness, itching and tearing of the eyes. It can also lead to discharge or crusting around the eyes.
Transmission:
- It usually occurs through direct or indirect contact.
- Direct transmission happens through droplets from the cough or sneeze of an infected person or through hand-to-eye contact.
- Indirectly, it can spread via shared personal items like towels, makeup, pillows or contact lenses.
Treatment:
- It’s important to stop wearing contact lenses whilst affected by conjunctivitis.
- It often resolves on its own, but treatment can speed the recovery process.
- Allergic conjunctivitis can be treat with antihistamines.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treat with antibiotic eye drops.
FAQs Related Conjunctivitis
Ques 1: What is conjunctivitis?
Answer: Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids.
Ques 2: What causes conjunctivitis?
Answer: Various factors can cause conjunctivitis, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, exposure to irritants like smoke or chemicals, and certain underlying health conditions.
Ques 3: What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
Answer: Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness in the white part of the eye, itching or burning sensation, excessive tearing, discharge from the eye (yellow or green in bacterial conjunctivitis), and crusty eyelids in the morning.
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