Steps To Prevent Conjunctivitis. Check details here.

With the ongoing monsoon season, hospitals are witnessing a surge in conjunctivitis cases due to the high levels of humidity across the country. Specifically, Delhi NCR’s All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) has reported more than 100 cases per day, indicating a concerning spike in the infection.

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, typically exhibits a seasonal increase that coincides with the flu season. The majority of cases are caused by a viral infection, making it highly contagious.

Schools in Delhi are also experiencing an uptick in conjunctivitis cases, particularly affecting children in classes 4 to 7. Fortunately, most affected children are recovering within three to four days, but precautionary measures are essential to curb its spread.

Over 2500 cases were also reported in the temple town of Pimpri Chinchwad, Alandi Municipal Council last week.

Pune based Dr Vishvesh Agrawal, Consultant, Ophthalamologist, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospitals, Hadapsar shared about the eye infection.

What are the Precautions needed to cure conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. It is a common condition that can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or an allergic reaction.

Here are some precautions you can take to help cure conjunctivitis:

1. Wash hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom or blowing your nose.
2. Avoid touching your eyes to prevent the spread of bacteria or viruses.
3. Use clean towels and washcloths daily
4. Avoiding sharing towels with others.
5. Refrain from wearing contact lenses until your eyes are fully healed.
6. Use artificial tears to relieve dryness and irritation.
7. If symptoms are severe or persist, consult a doctor.

How to identify if it’s normal eye infection or conjunctivitis?

Symptoms include redness, swollen eyelids, eye discharge (clear, white, yellow, or green), itching, grittiness, and eye pain. Conjunctivitis typically exhibits more redness and discharge compared to a regular eye infection.
Causes: Conjunctivitis is commonly caused by viruses.
Treatment : Eyedrops and good hygiene are the mainstay of treatment. Generally it takes 5-7 days to recover. Sometimes the condition can be extremely severe and cause disturbing sometimes like reduced vision, intolerance to light, very severe eyelid swelling.
Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to cure the symptoms as well as prevent spread to other patients as well

To prevent and combat pink eye, it is crucial to follow these precautionary measures:

1. Maintaining Hygiene: Adhering to strict hygiene rules is paramount. Regularly wash your hands with soap to prevent the infection from spreading. If you have conjunctivitis, avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands as this could worsen the condition.
2. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected eyes can help alleviate discomfort. However, ensure you use a clean cloth when doing so to avoid further infection.
3. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Refrain from rubbing your eyes if you have conjunctivitis, as this can aggravate the condition and spread the infection.
4. Do Not Share Personal Belongings: Be cautious not to share personal items such as handkerchiefs, towels, or similar objects with others to avoid transmission.
5. Avoid Eye Makeup: If you are suffering from conjunctivitis, avoid using any eye makeup, as it may worsen the infection.

By adhering to these preventive measures, individuals can reduce the risk of contracting conjunctivitis and help curb its spread within the community. If you experience symptoms such as redness, itchiness, or discharge from the eyes, seek medical attention promptly to receive appropriate treatment and prevent further transmission of the infection.