Pink Eye - Conjunctivitis - Symptoms & Precautions

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin and transparent layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye):

1. Red or pink appearance of the eye

2. Itchiness and irritation in the eye

3. Watery or sticky discharge from the eye

4. Swelling of the eyelids

5. Sensitivity to light

6. Blurred vision

7. Foreign body sensation in the eye

Preventive Measures for Conjunctivitis:

1. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching your eyes or face, to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.

2. Avoid touching your eyes: Refrain from rubbing or touching your eyes, as this can introduce bacteria or irritants and worsen the condition.

3. Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, eye makeup, contact lenses, and containers to minimize the risk of spreading conjunctivitis.

4. Keep contact lenses clean: If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene practices, such as cleaning and disinfecting them regularly. Also, avoid wearing contact lenses if you have symptoms of conjunctivitis.

5. Avoid irritants and allergens: Stay away from smoke, dust, pollen, and other potential irritants or allergens that could trigger conjunctivitis, especially if you are prone to allergies.

6. Practice social distancing: If you or someone around you has symptoms of conjunctivitis, maintain a safe distance to avoid potential transmission.

7. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that you frequently touch, like doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices.

If you experience symptoms of conjunctivitis, it's essential to consult an eye care professional or a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember, these preventive measures are general guidelines and may not apply to all cases. Therefore, seeking professional medical advice is always recommended.

From the desk of :

Dr Sumeet Sopan Yesumali

Homoeopathic Physician

M.D.(Hom.)(Medicine)(Pune) C.C.M.P.(GMC, Miraj) B.A.(Psychology)

Difficult Cases Course, IACH,(Greece).