Summary about Disease
Bulbar conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the bulbar conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye (sclera). It's often caused by infection, allergy, or irritation, resulting in redness and discomfort. While generally not sight-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and bothersome.
Symptoms
Redness of the white part of the eye
Itching or burning sensation
Gritty feeling in the eye
Excessive tearing
Discharge (watery, mucus-like, or purulent)
Blurred vision (usually mild and temporary)
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Swollen eyelids
Causes
Viral infections: Adenoviruses are the most common cause.
Bacterial infections: Common bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, and *Haemophilus influenzae*.
Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold.
Irritants: Smoke, pollution, chlorine, contact lens solutions.
Dry eye: Can make the conjunctiva more susceptible to inflammation.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments: For bacterial conjunctivitis (e.g., moxifloxacin, ofloxacin, erythromycin).
Antiviral eye drops or ointments: For viral conjunctivitis (e.g., ganciclovir, trifluridine, but generally self-limiting).
Artificial tears: To relieve dryness and irritation.
Antihistamine eye drops: For allergic conjunctivitis (e.g., olopatadine, ketotifen).
Mast cell stabilizer eye drops: For allergic conjunctivitis (e.g., cromolyn sodium, lodoxamide).
Topical corticosteroids: For severe allergic or inflammatory cases (used with caution due to potential side effects).
Is Communicable
Yes, viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious. Allergic and irritant conjunctivitis are not communicable.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching your eyes.
Use separate towels and washcloths.
Do not share eye makeup or contact lenses.
Clean contact lenses properly and regularly.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
If you have conjunctivitis, stay home from school or work until it clears up (especially for bacterial or viral forms).
Discard eye makeup used during the infection.
Avoid rubbing the eyes as this can spread the infection and worsen inflammation.
How long does an outbreak last?
Viral conjunctivitis: Can last from 1 to 3 weeks.
Bacterial conjunctivitis: Typically improves within 2 to 5 days with antibiotic treatment; without treatment, it may last 1 to 2 weeks.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Lasts as long as the allergen is present.
Irritant conjunctivitis: Resolves quickly once the irritant is removed.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history: Asking about symptoms, allergies, and exposure to irritants or infected individuals.
Physical examination: Examining the eyes for redness, discharge, and swelling.
Slit-lamp examination: Using a microscope to examine the conjunctiva and other eye structures.
Culture of discharge: To identify the specific bacteria or virus causing the infection (rarely needed).
Allergy testing: If allergic conjunctivitis is suspected.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline varies depending on the cause:
Viral: Symptoms usually appear gradually over 1-3 days, starting with one eye and often spreading to the other.
Bacterial: Symptoms can appear suddenly and are often more severe than viral, with thick, purulent discharge.
Allergic: Symptoms appear quickly after exposure to the allergen and usually affect both eyes.
Irritant: Symptoms appear shortly after exposure to the irritant.
Important Considerations
If you experience severe pain, vision changes, or sensitivity to light, see an ophthalmologist immediately.
Contact lens wearers should discontinue wearing their lenses until the infection clears.
Recurrent conjunctivitis may indicate an underlying condition, such as dry eye or allergy.
Proper hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infectious conjunctivitis.
Self-treating without a diagnosis can be harmful; consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.