Conjunctivitis: A Look At The Causes, Treatment And Prevention Of The 'Pink Eye'

In India, there has been a rapid increase in cases of conjunctivitis, specially in the national capital, Delhi, with many doctors cautioning that it is ‘highly contagious' and proper hygiene behaviour needs to be maintained to check its spread.

Conjunctivitis is the swelling of the outer layering of the eye. It could happen either due to a bacterial infection, viral infection, and in some cases, an allergic infection. It spreads through contact and not by looking at an infected eye.

Dr Kapur explained that in monsoon, overflowing and flooding makes the water system (tap water) contaminated. When it comes in contact with the eyes, it increases the risk of contracting the infection.

Another way of getting contaminated water in contact with the eyes is when the roads are flooded with water and the tyres of passing vehicles wip up thin drops of water which is called aerosoling. These dirty water droplets can also infect the eyes, Dr. Kapur informed.

Symptoms vary from mild, moderate to severe, which includes swelling of the white part of the eye, also called the ‘Pink Eye' or ‘Red Eye', white discharge from the eye and increased watering.

In severe cases, the infection can also lead to the blurring of the vision. The symptoms may last from days to weeks varying from patient to patient.

Treatment of conjunctivitis includes usage of eye drops prescribed by an eye specialist or an ophthalmologist. Putting eye drops in the required amount is significant as it affects the recovery process. The infected person must wash the eyes four to five times a day using clean boiled cool water or filter water.

During the monsoon season, people must avoid touching the eyes and sanitise hands frequently during the day. Using filtered water instead of tap water to splash the eyes can also prevent the plausible infection. One must avoid sharing towels, handkerchiefs, or other personal items with the infected individual.