Things to note about conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammatory infection of the transparent membrane in front of the white of the eye (this membrane is called the conjunctiva, and the white of the eye we see is called the sclera). When inflammation or infection occurs due to viruses, bacteria, or fungi, it leads to congestion of blood vessels in the conjunctiva and swelling of the soft tissue, causing redness of the eye, hence the name pink eye (conjunctivitis).

• CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)
• The risk of conjunctivitis (pink eye) is increasing and spreading within the community.
• Raising the price of medication for the prevention and treatment of conjunctivitis is strictly prohibited.

The disease easily spreads in outbreaks (more common in summer), mainly in crowded places and through close contact without proactive prevention. Transmission occurs through direct and indirect contact with eye secretions via hands contaminated with the virus or shared items and utensils. The disease can spread rapidly in families, nurseries, schools, offices, factories, and other crowded places; poor hygiene, cramped living conditions, contaminated water sources, or sharing personal items are factors that increase the risk of infection.

An outbreak typically lasts about 1-2 months, then subsides and stops. Currently, there is no vaccine for conjunctivitis; only proactive preventive measures are applied, and close monitoring is necessary if the disease has occurred. Not all cases of conjunctivitis are acute, and outbreaks can progress unpredictably, with unusual complications and long-term sequelae (if any), which are permanent. Therefore, it is essential to consult a specialist for examination and monitoring to ensure the best treatment response.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis include inflammation and redness of the conjunctiva, eye irritation, and swelling.

Causes of conjunctivitis include: viral (the most common cause), bacterial, and allergic. Viral conjunctivitis is caused by various viruses, but Herpesvirus and Adenovirus are common, accounting for over 80% of cases; bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus, etc.

School-aged children are most susceptible to bacterial conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is also often complicated by bacterial infections, so extreme caution is needed. Self-treatment should be avoided, including applying leaves to the eyes, dropping unfamiliar liquids into the eyes, and rubbing the eyes to prevent further infection and damage. Only use a clean, soft cloth to gently wipe the eyelids and consult a doctor for diagnosis, prognosis, and prevention of complications.

Additionally, people with allergies may develop conjunctivitis when exposed to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust, and medications. The condition often recurs, is not contagious, and typically occurs seasonally.

Clinical diagnoses include: burning eyes, stinging eyes, tearing, mild fever, redness of the eyes with white, green, or yellow discharge, depending on the virulence of the causative agent and the inflammatory reaction in the conjunctiva. Examination does not require blood tests or local immunological tests; a clinical examination is sufficient. It is necessary to differentiate from other eye diseases that also present with redness, such as: glaucoma, uveitis, corneal ulcers, corneal pseudomembranes, and more severe infections that may lead to vision loss... these require specialist examination and appropriate treatment.

The health check team from the Ca Mau Provincial Center for Disease Control examined and monitored eye diseases for the workers.

Regarding treatment options, doctors will use antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs under controlled conditions, assessed after a thorough clinical examination of the patient's eye and eyeball, to minimize excessive inflammatory reactions on the ocular surface. A moderate immune response is necessary; an overly strong response can cause more serious damage. Along with topical antibiotics, saline solution and artificial tears are also very helpful, cleaning the surface, reducing irritation, and promoting faster recovery. The condition usually resolves within 7-14 days; if there is no secondary infection, recovery will be complete within 5-7 days.

To proactively prevent infection, it is necessary to wash hands frequently with soap, wash face daily with clean water and use a separate face towel; clean eyes, nose, and throat daily with common eye drops, nasal drops, and mouthwash; use soap or common disinfectants to disinfect shared items and utensils; avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth; do not share eye drops or personal items such as face towels and eyeglasses, as these can easily become contaminated; limit contact with patients or people suspected of having conjunctivitis.

Recommendations for those infected with conjunctivitis: Patients or those suspected of having conjunctivitis should limit contact with others and seek timely medical examination, consultation, and treatment at a healthcare facility; do not self-treat; rest the eyes, minimize or avoid computer and phone use (which irritates the eyes); use saline solution or artificial tears to rinse the eyes, avoid rubbing the eyes; wash hands and face frequently; wear glasses and a mask, avoid crowded places, rest, and self-isolate for 7 days.

If you have allergic conjunctivitis: avoid eating allergenic foods, avoid places with allergens (pollen, fine dust, air pollutants, etc.), and take antihistamines as directed by your doctor.

Phuoc Nhuong

Source: https://baocamau.vn/nhung-luu-y-ve-benh-dau-mat-do-a127474.html