Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye”, is one of the most well-known and treatable eye infections for both children and adults. The name was chosen because it is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. It is commonly called “pink eye” because of the red color of the eye from irritation and was described as such.

Several different microorganisms cause Bacterial Conjunctivitis, the most common being Haemophilus aegyptius, the Koch-week bacillus. This type of bacterium is gram-negative and rod shaped. Haemophilus means “blood loving”and therefore grow in chocolate agar which contains disrupted blood cells. Other bacterium which may cause Bacterial Conjunctivitis include Streptococcus and Staphlyococcus. The incidence of Bacterial Conjunctivitis caused by gram positive bacterium are more predominate.

The different types of bacterium which cause Conjunctivitis are highly contagious and transmitted by face to face contact and through airborne droplets. Conjunctivitis can also be passed through facial lotions, eye-make up and other shared materials with an infected person. Touch, espeacially in children, is usually how the bacterium are transmitted!

Symptoms of Bacterial Conjunctivitis include redness in the white of the eye and swelling. The eyes may run and discharge occurs. The eye may be sticky and the discharge tends to be a thick mucous or a yellowish-green pus, which worsens overnight causing the eyelids to become crusty and stick together. Both eyes are usually infected although is often starts in just one eye and the eyes are itchy and painful. Bacterial conjunctivitis causes an increase one’s sensitivity and also cause pain when exposed to light. When vision in bright light is impaired it is referred to as photophobia. Ear infections often accompany Bacterial Conjunctivitis.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis has a relatively short incubation period. Most cases are cured in 3-5 daysand there is rarely any permanent damage. The disease is treated with antibiotics that typically contain Sulamyd and administered as eye drops or an ointment for 7-10 days. Oral antibiotics can be given for certain types of bacteria. It is important, however, to continue medication as instructed by the physician, even after the symptoms have cleared. If antibiotics are not taken, the disease will run its course in fourteen days and a wet washcloth over the eyelids may help relive some discomfort. An over the counter Saline Solution, “artificial tears”, can be used