mechanically ‘peel’ a fine membrane off the inner aspect of your eyelids to reduce the small risk of scarring that can occur in severe cases. Acute viral conjunctivitis tends to last one to two weeks although sometimes patients can have problems with their eyes for months, or very rarely years, after a severe case of acute conjunctivitis. Glare can be a problem after the acute symptoms improve and can be a result of small immune deposits on the cornea (clear part of the eye). This requires close follow up by an eye specialist, as anti-inflammatory eye drops may be needed. Other viral conjunctivitis, especially those infected with herpes simplex virus, require specialised anti-viral medication such as an eye preparation of acyclovir (Zovirax). It is important that patients do not use their regular medication that they use for mouth and lip cold sores in the eye. In some cases, tablet anti-virals may be required. It is important that anti-inflammatory or steroid eye drops are not used in these cases unless specifically prescribed by an eye specialist, as this can worsen the severity and duration of the condition. Bacterial conjunctivitis is normally diagnosed on a swab and antibiotic eye drops prescribed roughly four to six times per day. Usually a broad-spectrum antibiotic such as Chloramphenicol (Chlorsig), Erythromycin or Ciprofloxacin will be used, although specific bugs may require a more tailored antibiotic selection. Sexually transmitted conjunctivitis requires intense treatment with antibiotic eye drops as well as oral antibiotic, or rarely through an intravenous drip requiring hospitalisation. Treatment also needs to involve the primary health care physician such as the GP, and specialist referral to the local sexual health clinic. Any conjunctivitis that does not improve within two weeks needs further investigation and referral to an eye specialist. Medical treatment of allergic conjunctivitis involves anti-allergy eye drops and in some cases anti-inflammatory eye drops. Care must be taken when using anti-inflammatory eye drops for a long time, as use of these medications can cause problems such as glaucoma and cataract if not used under the supervision of an eye specialist. In some instances, the eye specialist will also recommend tablet anti-histamines. In specific and severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis, stronger immune modulating eye drops and even tablets or intravenous injections may be required to control the immune basis of this condition. Excellence in women’s General Treatment for Infectious Conjunctivitis General treatment for conjunctivitis relies on minimising the patient’s discomfort and preventing any further spread to others. A common course of action includes time off work or school, avoidance of handshaking, regular hand washing and washing of personal items such as hand towels. Generally, acute adenoviral conjunctivitis is infectious for a minimum of seven to ten days from the onset of symptoms and children and adults need to take time off from school and work to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis. A cold face washer over the closed eyes can help to minimise discomfort. Patients will also often be advised to use preservative-free eye lubricants every one to two hours, which again will help minimise discomfort in patients with conjunctivitis. Medical Treatment Given that the large majority of acute conjunctivitis is adenoviral, antibiotic eye drops are not effective and therefore not normally required. In some instances, your eye specialist may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or even anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent future complications such as secondary infections or scarring. Sometimes they may also need to For more than 22 years Dr Andrew Cary has been providing care to women of the Gold Coast. As a specialist gynaecologist and obstetrician, Dr Cary is able to assist with all women’s health concerns from heavy periods, endometriosis and hysterectomy to contraception, antenatal care and delivery. He has a particular interest in high-risk obstetric and antenatal care. Dr Cary is a respected IVF specialist, having assisted many women and couples to achieve their dream of parenthood. He is a co-founder of Queensland Fertility Group Gold Coast. ‘As a father of three children, I understand both the trials and rewards of parenthood, and I am committed to every health care partner’s journey into conception, pregnancy and delivery.’ Dr Cary specialises in the following types of surgery, among others: • IVF egg collection • Complex embryo transfer • Hysteroscopy and surgery of the endometrium (womb-lining) • Laparoscopy • Tubal Sterilisation • Endometrial ablation. ‘I hope to be able to assist and guide you through your obstetric, gynaecology and reproductive care.’ Suite 10, Pindara Place, Carrara St, Benowa, Qld, 4217 Email: reception@drcary.com.au | Phone: 07 5597 3770 | Web: www.drcary.com.au GENERAL HEALTH
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Seven
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