Conjunctivitis

Question 1

What is conjunctivitis?

Answer 1

Inflammation of the conjunctiva - can be bacterial, viral or allergic

Question 2

How does conjunctivitis present?

Answer 2

• Red eye
• Bloodshot
• Itchy/gritty sensation
• Discharge from the eye
• Can be unilateral or bilateral
• Bacterial: purulent discharge worse in morning
• Viral: Clear discharge usually with other coryzal symptoms e.g. dry cough, sore throat, runny nose

Question 3

How is conjunctivitis managed?

Answer 3

• Usually self resolves within 1-2 weeks
• Give good hygiene advice as bacterial is very contagious
• Bacterial: Chloramphenicol drops or ointment can be used until 48 hours after infection is resolved
• Viral: Self-resolve with good hygiene advice

Question 4

How does allergic conjunctivitis present?

Answer 4

• Swelling of the conjunctival sac and eyelid
• Watery discharge with itch

Question 5

How is allergic conjunctivitis managed?

Answer 5

• Antihistamines either oral or topical