Meaning Of Pink Eyes / conjunctivitis:
Pink eye, also known as ‘CONJUNCTIVITIS’, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is a transparent membrane that lines our eyeballs and eyelids. Conjunctivitis causes dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva, giving the appearance of Pink eyes/Red eyes are usually accompanied by increased watering and/or discharge from the eyes.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS?
- Conjunctivitis can be viral, bacterial or allergic.
- Viral conjunctivitis is responsible for up to 75% of cases of infective conjunctivitis. The majority of these cases are caused by adenovirus.
- Both bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can be seen along with respiratory infections, such as sore throat or common cold.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CONJUNCTIVITIS?
The most common symptoms include:
- Foreign body sensation in eyes
- Redness of eyes.
- Itching in one or both eyes.
- Increased watering from eyes
- Discharge- can be watery or thick yellowish depending on the type of infection
- Stickiness of eyelashes
- Light sensitivity
MONSOON AND PINK EYE:
- Infective conjunctivitis is highly contagious. Risk of spread of infection is high If you come in contact with the secretion or the watery discharge from the infected person’s eyes.
- This year, in the past few weeks, there has been a surge in the number of patients presenting with pink eyes and discharge, with an increase in viral infections.
- This could be due to the humidity and moisture in the air during the monsoon which provide an ideal environment for the growth and spread of virus/bacteria that cause conjunctivitis.
- Also, the heavy rainfall can result in increased accumulation of allergens and pollutants in the environment, which can further add to the risk of conjunctivitis.
TIPS TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR EYES THIS MONSOON:
- Good personal hygiene.
- DO NOT TOUCH your eyes without washing hands.
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently.
- Use only clean tissues or towels to wipe the face/eyes..
- Do not share your towels or washcloths and do not use others’
- Change your pillowcases and blankets often.
- Do not share eye cosmetics or personal care items.
- Good contact lens hygiene. If possible, avoid contact lens wear during this outbreak.
- Avoid water parks, swimming during the monsoon.
- Keep a sanitizer and use it whenever you touch something in a public place.
- Wear glasses when you go out.
- Avoid self-medication.
WHAT TO DO IF I HAVE CONJUNCTIVITIS?
If you already have pink eye, follow these to help keep your friends and family safe
- Take the medications as prescribed by your ophthalmologist.
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Do not rub your eyes.
- Change your towel and washcloth daily and do not share with others.
- Use protective/dark goggles.
- Replace eye cosmetics after the infection clears.
- If your child has conjunctivitis, it is better not to send them to school for a few days to avoid spreading it.
POINTS TO NOTE
- Conjunctivitis is not a one-time-only disease. Prevention is better than cure!
- Most cases of viral conjunctivitis are highly contagious for 10-14 days. Washing hands and good hygiene are key to preventing transmission to others.
Author Details:
Dr. Sinchana Adyanthaya is a dedicated ophthalmologist with a wide range of experience. She has excelled in routine OPD work, managed high-volume OPDs, and performed various eye procedures. Her fellowship in Cornea and Refractive Surgery has enhanced her skills in advanced corneal investigations and surgeries. Dr. Adyanthaya has published research articles, presented at conferences, and actively participated in academic activities. With her proficiency in multiple languages, she ensures effective communication with patients. Overall, she is a skilled and compassionate ophthalmologist committed to providing excellent care.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, protecting your eyes from ‘pink eyes’ (conjunctivitis) during the monsoon season requires practicing good hygiene, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, and maintaining cleanliness in your surroundings. Taking simple precautions such as not sharing personal items and wearing protective eyewear can also contribute to reducing the risk of infection. Additionally, prioritizing your immune health and seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms can help prevent the spread of infection and ensure a quicker recovery. By following these preventive measures, you can enjoy the monsoon season without the worry of developing pink eye and other eye-related infections
