Conjunctivitis is extremely contagious, accompanied by annoying symptoms and, in the worst case, can have serious consequences. These four symptoms are characteristic of conjunctivitis.
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What is conjunctivitis?
The conjunctiva acts as the lubricating lining of the eye, connecting the eyeball to the inside of the eyelids. Bacteria and viruses in particular, but also allergic reactions and dry or dirty air can cause inflammation of the conjunctiva. Since the disease is extremely contagious when caused by a bacterial or viral infection, it is best not to touch the affected eye at all. In the event of contact, eg by rubbing a hand, it should be washed immediately and other people should not use the washcloths and towels of those affected. Due to the Latin name of the conjunctiva – conjunctiva – its inflammation is called conjunctivitis .
As a rule, conjunctivitis heals without treatment within two weeks. Antibiotics can be used for severe bacterial infections. Although the conjunctivitis usually runs smoothly, the annoying symptoms can cause a high level of suffering. The following symptoms are indicative of conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis: 4 symptoms
1. Redness
This typical sign of inflammation does not stop at the eye and is characteristic of conjunctivitis. If it is an allergic reaction, both eyes are always affected. In the case of infectious causes, one eye can initially be red and possibly infect the other eye. In addition, the inflammation can be accompanied by burning or pain when moving the eye. The clear reddening, together with the following two symptoms, is a fairly clear indication of conjunctivitis. You should still contact your family doctor or ophthalmologist for a diagnosis.
2. Sticky discharge
Especially in the morning after waking up, the eyelids can be stuck together because the conjunctiva secretes more fluid in the event of inflammation. In the case of bacterial conjunctivitis, a whitish-yellow secretion occurs, whereas in viral conjunctivitis it is a clear, watery secretion. Antibiotic (for bacterial infection) or non-antibiotic eye drops can be used to break up adhesions and lubricate the eye.
3. Itching
An annoying itching and a foreign body sensation in the eye can also occur and increase the suffering of those affected. If, in addition to the itching, there are also allergic symptoms such as a runny nose, the suspicion of allergic conjunctivitis is obvious.
4. Photosensitivity
Do your eyes sting and water when you are exposed to daylight or when a bright lamp is on in the room? Such photophobia, also known as photophobia , is a typical symptom of various inflammations of the eye – including conjunctivitis. So if you notice that you or your child shy away from daylight and bright lamplight, conjunctivitis could possibly be to blame and should be clarified by a doctor.
Important: Although conjunctivitis is usually harmless, it can also have more serious consequences. If conjunctivitis persists for more than two weeks or if severe symptoms such as impaired vision and headaches occur, you should seek medical advice immediately.
