E Y E S P Y Dr Tani Brown, Ophthalmologist What is conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis is the name for a very common eye condition that can affect people of all ages. It is the result of anything that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin mucous membrane lining of the eyeball and inner part of the top and bottom of eyelids. It can be a result of allergies, chemical exposure, cancer, immune disorders, but most commonly infections, particularly viral and bacterial infections. The conjunctiva can be thought of as the ‘skin’ of the eye and eyelids and in fact is made up of very similar, but modified, cells as the rest of our skin. It lies over the top of the sclera, which is the tough white layer of the eyeball, and is relatively transparent with a large amount of microscopic blood vessels running through it. Not only does it have a role in mechanically protecting the eye but it also has important immune functions and a role in helping prevent evaporation of our tears. When something irritates the conjunctiva, such as an infection, the tiny blood vessels dilate or enlarge, causing the common symptoms of redness, swelling and discharge. What causes conjunctivitis? The most common causes of conjunctivitis, in order, are viral infections, bacterial infections and an allergic predisposition. Each presents in subtly different ways and it is important to determine the underlying cause of conjunctivitis, as the treatment is different depending on the cause. Essentially, not all red, sticky eyes are the same. GENERAL HEALTH pindaramagazine.com.au Pindara Magazine 29
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Seven
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