Allergic Allergic conjunctivitis is less common overall as a cause of conjunctivitis but is frequent in adults and children who also have conditions such as allergies, hay fever, rhinitis, asthma and eczema. It commonly occurs in response to specific allergens, such as pollens, and often becomes worse in particular seasons such as spring. Common symptoms of conjunctivitis Generally, infectious conjunctivitis starts in one eye and then can spread to the other eye. It is common for one eye to be more affected than the other in cases where both eyes are affected. Conjunctivitis can be a very distressing eye condition and can cause considerable pain and discomfort to the patient. Discharge is a common sign of conjunctivitis and can help determine whether it is bacterial or viral in cause. Bacterial causes often have a thick, yellow or green discharge while viral conjunctivitis tends to have a very watery discharge. Allergic conjunctivitis tends to occur in both eyes at the same time and in conjunction with itchiness, a thick discharge, large lumps or papillae (similar in appearance to ‘cobblestones’) under the top eyelid and possible skin changes around the eye. In children, allergic conjunctivitis may be so severe as to involve the cornea causing an ulcer or infected cornea or keratitis. Symptoms may worsen in conjunction with a flare-up of their associated atopic disease and is often also influenced by age and gender, particularly in younger children. Therefore, children who are suspected of having allergic conjunctivitis always need to be seen by an eye specialist to ensure there are no complications, which could affect their vision. Treatment of conjunctivitis Diagnosis Accurate diagnosis of conjunctivitis is normally based on a good history and a thorough eye examination by an eye specialist. In suspected cases of acute adenoviral conjunctivitis, a swab to determine the microbiological cause is often not needed to make a diagnosis. In cases where the cause is not entirely clear, your doctor may take a swab of the involved conjunctiva to test for common viruses and bacteria. GENERAL HEALTH SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF ACUTE CONJUNCTIVITIS INCLUDE: • Red eye • Foreign body or gritty sensation • Discharge (watery, thick mucous) • Eyelid swelling and crusting, especially in the morning • Itchy eyes (especially allergic conjunctivitis) • Swelling of the conjunctiva • Blurry vision • Yellowish membranes on inner aspect of eyelid • Associated cold or flu-like symptoms • Small nodes in front of your ears (pre auricular lymph nodes) pindaramagazine.com.au Pindara Magazine 31
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Seven
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