Just What Is "Conjunctivitis" ?

By Matthew Jones
August 10 2004

Just what is this "conjunctivitis" that is spreading through the Newcastle camp and putting player after player out of action? Here is a bit of information about just what it is and what causes it.

What is conjunctivitis?

Inflammation is seen as reddish change in the periphery of the eye often accompanied by a pus-like discharge.

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctivae, which are the mucous membranes covering the white of the eyes and the inner side of the eyelids. It usually affects both eyes at the same time although it may start in one eye and spread to the other after a day or two. It may be asymmetrical, affecting one eye more than the other. There are many causes and the treatment will depend upon the cause.

Conjunctivitis is a very common eye condition. It is not serious but can be very uncomfortable and irritating.

What causes conjunctivitis?

There are five different kinds of conjunctivitis, each with its own cause.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection caused by bacteria such as staphylococci, streptococci or haemophilus. These organisms may come from the patient's own skin or upper respiratory tract or they may be caught from another person with conjunctivitis.

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is often associated with the common cold. This may be caused by a virus called 'adenovirus'. This type of conjunctivitis can spread rapidly between people and may cause an epidemic of conjunctivitis.

Chlamydial conjunctivitis

This type of conjunctivitis is caused by an organism called Chlamydia trachomatis. This organism may also affect other parts of the body and can cause the venereal disease chlamydia .

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is common in people who have other signs of allergic disease such as hay fever, asthma and eczema. The conjunctivitis is often caused by antigens like pollen, dust mites or cosmetics.

Reactive conjunctivitis - chemical or irritant conjunctivitis

Some people are very susceptible to chemicals in swimming pools or to smoke or fumes and this can cause an irritation of the conjunctiva with discomfort, redness and watering. In such cases these irritants should be avoided.

More?

For full facts, information about symptoms and treatment, and other information, go to http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/conjunctivitis.htm