Red in the eye

Viral fever, skin infections and gastro-intestinal problems8212;monsoon brings with it an array of ail-ments.

Viral fever, skin infections and gastro-intestinal problems8212;monsoon brings with it an array of ail-ments. And now, it8217;s conjunctivitis. Fairly common during the sticky, wet weather, conjunctivitis is a highly contagious infection that, however, does not damage the vision.

Generally known as pinkeye, conjunctivitis causes inflammation of the conjunctiva8212;the clear mem-brane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids, except the cornea. The inflammation can have many causes.

The causes

Either bacteria or viruses usually cause infec-tious conjunctivitis. The most common bacteria causing the infection are Streptococcus Pneu-moniae, Haemophilus Influenzae and Staphy-lococcus Aureus. The parasites that cause sexu-ally transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia can also infect the eyes. However, the latter type can occur only in sexually active people and newborns, who contract it at birth from their mothers.

Viral conjunctivitis

8220;It is the most common formof conjunctivitis. It spreads very fast,8221; says Dr A K Grover, chair-man, department of ophthalmology at Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi. RNA and DNA viruses mostly cause viral conjunctivitis. 8220;Most of these infections are caused by adenoviruses or enteroviruses. This is the peak season for this kind of infection,8221; he adds.

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs more frequently among children suffering fromallergic condi-tions like hay fever. Caused by allergens like grass and pollen, it is seen only during certain times of the year.

Allergens like animal dander and dust mites can also lead to year-round symptoms of con-junctivitis. Although other forms of conjunctivi-tis often start in one eye, allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes at the same time. 8220;It is most common among boys in the age group of 5 to 10 years,8221; says Dr Grover.

Do not turn a blind eye

Never take for granted even the slightest dis-comfort in your eyes. The most common symp-toms of conjunctivitis are:

8226; Irritation or pain in the eye

8226; Redness of the eye and the inner eyelid

8226; Swollen eyelids and light sensitivity

8226; Itchiness and watering

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8226; Discharge from the eyes may accompany the other symptoms. It can be thick in white, yel-low or green colours

Fear of contagion

All types of conjunctivitis are contagious. 8220;It doesn8217;t spread if you see a person with the dis-ease. Trouble starts when you touch something that is infected and then touch your eyes with those hands,8221; says Dr Grover. Parasites can also spread through coughing and sneezing. Certain viruses also spread in the summer when children swim in contaminated water or share contaminated towels.

Shield your eyes

Ensure basic hygiene and you can steer clear of conjunctivitis. Here are some tips:

8226; Keep washing your hands frequently with warm water and soap

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8226; Do not share eye drops, tissues, eye makeup, towels or pillowcases

8226; If you already have conjunctivitis, wash your hands after touching the eyes

8226; Avoid crowded places

8226; Wash your eyes frequently if they are sticky

Treatment for the eye

It is symptomatic in viral conjunctivitis. You may require antibiotics in case of secondary in-fections. Eye drops like decongestants can help. 8220;Steroids have to be avoided as they can cause side effects,8221; says Dr Grover. Like most viral dis-eases, it takes about a week to cure. Cold com-presses help in reducing congestion.