Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is swelling (inflammation) or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).

There are many causes of conjunctivitis. Viruses are the most common cause. Other causes include:

·               Allergies (allergic conjunctivitis)

·               Bacteria

·               Certain diseases

·               Chemical exposure

·               Chlamydia

·               Fungi

·               Parasites (rarely)

·               Use of contact lenses (especially extended-wear lenses)

"Pink eye" refers to a viral infection of the conjunctiva. These infections are especially contagious among children.

Symptoms

Blurred vision, Crusts that form on the eyelid overnight, Eye pain, Gritty feeling in the eyes, Increased tearing, Itching of the eye, Redness in the eyes, Sensitivity to light

Treatment

Treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause.

Allergic conjunctivitis may respond to allergy treatment. It may disappear on its own when the allergen that caused it is removed. Cool compresses may help soothe allergic conjunctivitis.

Antibiotic medication, usually eye drops, is effective for bacterial conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis will disappear on its own. Many doctors give a mild antibiotic eyedrop for pink eye to prevent bacterial conjunctivitis.

You can soothe the discomfort of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis by applying warm compresses (clean cloths soaked in warm water) to your closed eyes.

Conjunctivitis makes citizens see red early

Prof Dr. S. Natarajan was bestowed with P. SIVA REDDY INTERNATIONAL AWARD for Innovations in Vitreoretinal Surgery by All India Ophthalmological Society

Take Destiny in your Hand

All you need to know in Applied Optics - CME on 22nd Jan 2012

Amblyopia or lazy eye

Amblyopia or lazy eye is the most common disorder in children. It occurs when one eye is weaker than the other and the brain "shuts off" the weaker eye. Amblyopia may be caused by strabismus, or because one eye doesn't focus properly. Only an eye exam will detect it, because children can function well using just one eye.

Eyes continue to develop up to the age of about nine; it is important to be...gin treatment early (ideally before age six), because once the eyes mature, the condition is not reversible. Treatment may involve prescription of glasses, a combination of glasses and an eye patch, or just patching the strong eye to force the weaker eye to work harder. Surgery also may be necessary to mechanically realign the eyes.

Eat healthy to avoid eye problems

 Incorporate Vitamins A, C, and E on a daily basis; eat citrus fruits, green leafy veggies, tomatoes, spinach, poultry and dairy products. Pack a box of chopped carrots, cucumber and fresh fruits and munch in-between meals at the office.