1. Causes and Signs
Eye infections are also known as conjunctivitis, which means "inflammation of the conjunctiva." The conjunctiva is the thin layer of tissue covering the white of eye (sclera) and the inside of the eyelids. Infectious conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria. Signs of conjunctivitis include red, irritated eyes and a white, yellow or green discharge.
2. Diagnosis
Eye infections are diagnosed by a health care provider, who will rule out other causes of red eyes, such as allergies or foreign bodies in the eyes. So it is very important to have a red eye evaluated by a physician, especially if you wear contact lenses or if there is pain, trouble seeing, headache, trauma to the eye.
Viral conjunctivitis is typically accompanied by cold-like symptoms that worsen over a few days and then improve within a few weeks.
Bacterial conjunctivitis symptoms include a red, irritated eye with thick white to green discharge that is continuous through the day and matted shut in the morning.
3. Treatment
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis is extremely contagious, and treatment involves educating the patient about hygiene to prevent spreading the virus. There is no medication to treat viral conjunctivitis, but bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with antibiotic drops or ointments.
4. Prevention
As with any contagious illness, proper handwashing is extremely important in prevention. Washing your hands with an antibacterial soap for at least 15 to 30 seconds using warm water should be sufficient. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be used. Because viruses are often spread via respiratory droplets, infected individuals should cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing.
Other precautions to take include avoiding touching the eye and then other objects, using disposable towels instead of cloth, and avoid sharing objects such as cosmetics or pillows. Since symptoms can last one to three weeks, being vigilant about handwashing is vital.
Other Causes
There are several other conditions that can cause red eyes, including allergies, dry eye syndrome, foreign body in the eye or chemical exposure. A visit to your health care provider should clarify the diagnosis for you.
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