Conjunctivitis, sometimes called pink eye or sticky eye, is a common condition in which the white part of the eye turns pink or red. One or both eyes may be watery, sore, or itchy, sometimes with sticky white or yellow discharge. This is due to inflammation of the clear outer layer of the eye, known as the conjunctiva, and the inside of the eyelid.
Allergic conjunctivitis can be seasonal or triggered by specific allergens, such as pollen or pet dander. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, and it's important that one of our ophthalmologists at Clínica Nivaria diagnoses the exact cause to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
The main symptom of conjunctivitis is red or pink eyes, often accompanied by itching, watering, or discomfort. If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, you may experience a sticky, yellow or green discharge from your eyes, which can cause your eyelids to stick together, especially upon waking.
If you have viral conjunctivitis, one or both eyes may be affected and the discharge is likely to be clear.
If you have allergic conjunctivitis, both eyes are usually affected with a clear discharge, and you may also have hay fever symptoms, such as an itchy nose, watery eyes, and sneezing.
If you have conjunctivitis, you could also:
- To have tears.
- Having swollen eyes.
- Sandy sensation in one or both eyes.
- Experiencing itching or burning in the eyes.
- Having sensitivity to light.
- Experiencing vision loss or pain is an ophthalmological emergency, so you should contact our clinic immediately at +34 822 027 777 .
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we look forward to seeing you at our Ophthalmology Clinic located at Avenida Reyes Católicos, 25, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
What causes conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis can be caused by:
- Bacterial infection.
- Viral infection.
- Allergy.
- Irritants such as dust or chemicals.
How is conjunctivitis contracted?
You can contract viral or bacterial conjunctivitis through direct contact with the eye discharge of an infected person. You can also become infected by touching objects contaminated with infectious eye secretions, such as towels, facial cleansers, and tissues.
Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold stains, and occasionally foods or food additives. It is not contagious, so it cannot be spread from person to person.
When should I see an ophthalmologist at Clínica Nivaria?
If you have symptoms of conjunctivitis, you should consult with one of our specialists to find the cause and the best treatment for your type of conjunctivitis.
How is conjunctivitis treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. For all types of conjunctivitis, it is helpful to gently wash the eye several times a day with clean cotton soaked in warm water.
Viral infections usually get better without special treatment. Bacterial infections may require antibiotic eye drops or ointments. It's important to continue using the medication for several days after your symptoms have improved.
If you wear contact lenses and develop bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, you should discard them and replace the case. You should avoid wearing contact lenses for at least one week after your symptoms have cleared.
Replace any eye makeup or eyelash extensions you used just before or during an infection.
Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamine eye drops or tablets. Sometimes, one of our specialists may suggest tests to help you find the allergy trigger.
Can conjunctivitis be prevented?
People with conjunctivitis should try not to touch their eyes and should wash their hands regularly with warm water and soap, using a separate towel. This will reduce the risk of spreading conjunctivitis from one eye to the other and between people.
People who wear contact lenses should change them regularly and avoid wearing them while bathing, swimming, or sleeping. Those who work in an irritating or dusty environment should wear eye protection.
While adults can develop conjunctivitis, it is much more common in children. In this case, our recommendation is to keep them at home until the infection clears (whether viral or bacterial).
If you or a member of your family suffers from conjunctivitis, we welcome you to our Ophthalmology Clinic located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife . Contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionals. You'll receive the best ophthalmological care in the Canary Islands!
Book your appointment today by calling us at 822 027 777. We'd be delighted to see you at our Ophthalmology Clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
