Conjunctivitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Conjunctivitis is a condition where inflammation occurs in one part of the eye called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that covers the entire front of the eye and protects the eye.
When there is conjunctivitis or inflammation, the eyes will look red and watery and feel sore. Poor hygiene problems are one of the factors that play a big role in the occurrence of this disease.
Symptoms
Initially, conjunctivitis affects only one eye, but later it can affect both eyes. Other recognizable symptoms include:
- redness. The eyes become reddish because the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva are inflamed.
- Watery eyes. Tear production will be more active due to inflammation.
- The eyes will feel sore and itchy and uncomfortable as if there is a foreign object in the eye
- Belekan
- Dazzled. The eyes will be more sensitive to light
- Swelling around the eyes
Reason
Conjunctivitis can be caused by germs in the form of viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and chemicals that are toxic (poisons). In addition, conjunctivitis can also occur due to allergic reactions (immune factors). However, viruses are the most common cause of conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis caused by a viral infection is a disease that is easily transmitted. The method of transmission is through eye fluids that contain the germs that cause it. For example, when a person’s hand touches a surface that has germs that cause it, then rubs his eyes using the same hand. If the hand that touches the surface touches the eye without washing hands first, then the possibility of contracting conjunctivitis is quite high.
Diagnosis
To determine the diagnosis of conjunctivitis, a series of medical interviews and a physical examination by a doctor or ophthalmologist are needed. Early diagnosis can help keep the disease from spreading, as conjunctivitis can be contagious. However, conjunctivitis does not interfere with vision.
Treatment
As for conjunctivitis caused by a virus, it can actually heal by itself, but it can take a long time. Often treatment from a doctor is still needed to relieve symptoms, relieve discomfort and speed healing.
The types of treatment given by doctors include giving lubricants (to lubricate the eyes), treatments to fight germs (antibiotics to fight bacteria), to steroids (medicines to reduce irritation/anti-allergy).
The type of conjunctivitis caused by bacteria can be severe and can threaten vision. For this reason, proper treatment from a doctor is needed.
The first aid you can do before visiting the doctor is to rest your eyes and protect them so that there is no additional dust or dirt. For example by using temporary glasses. If there is a lot of eye discharge that makes it difficult to open your eyes, you can wipe it with a soft cotton soaked in clean water. Wash your hands with soap and running water before cleaning this excess dirt.
Prevention
Keep your eyes clean by avoiding the habit of rubbing your eyes. This disease is easily contagious due to hygiene problems. It is best to diligently wash your hands using soap and running water.
As for conjunctivitis which is related to allergic reactions, the way to prevent it is to avoid objects that can trigger allergies. For example, dust mites, smoke/pollution, or pollen.