Various types of conjunctivitis

There are various types of conjunctivitis, all of which involve inflammation of the conjunctiva on the sclera. The conjunctiva is the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. This ocular condition is sometimes called madras eye or pink eye. Allergic and bacterial factors are the most common contributors to conjunctivitis. According to different reasons, conjunctivitis has various forms, e.g. allergic conjunctivitis, bacterial conjunctivitis, chemical conjunctivitis etc. But nearly all of these forms have some common symptoms, such as eye redness, irritation and watery eyes.

Bacterial conjunctivitis and its treatment

Many types of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae may lead to bacterial conjunctivitis, which is the most common type. These bacteria can be spread through human contact, contaminated surface, sinus or ear infection. Besides common symptoms such as pink eye, bacterial conjunctivitis usually produces a thick discharge or pus. Antibiotics are usually used to treat bacteria conjunctivitis.

Neonatal conjunctivitis in newborn infants

Neonatal conjunctivitis is also a form of bacterial conjunctivitis, which relates to some sexually transmitted diseases. A sexually transmitted chlamydial infection on pregnant women may lead to neonatal conjunctivitis on their newborn infants. Those sexually transmitted diseases may result from herpes simple virus type 1 and 2. In order to eliminate potential eye infections, an antibiotic ointment is usually applied to newborn babies.

Viral conjunctivitis and its symptoms

Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis, viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious by the spread of airborne viruses via sneezing and coughing. Symptoms of viral conjunctivitis include watery discharge, swelling surface and itchy eyes. This type of conjunctivitis can not be cured with antibiotics, eye drops and ointments. Eye drops can only relieve its symptoms. After three to five days that are the worst, viral conjunctivitis will go away gradually on its own.

Giant papillary and non-infectious conjunctivitis

Giant papillary conjunctivitis is particular that it is mainly found on people wearing contact lenses. Prosthetics, stitches and improper immune responses can also lead to this type of conjunctivitis. Its symptoms contain itching, a heavy discharge, tearing, red bumps and so forth. Patients are always asked to stop wearing contacts or trying another type of contacts. Disposable contact lenses involve less risk. Smoke, diesel exhaust, perfumes and certain chemicals may lead to non-infectious conjunctivitis.

Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with eye drops

Allergens such as pollen, animal dander and dust mites can lead to allergic conjunctivitis, which always causes itchy eyes. The most effective way is avoiding those allergens. Once diagnosed with allergic conjunctivitis, you can buy special eye drops from both stores and your ECP to control allergic reactions.