Understanding Differences Between Allergic and Infectious Conjunctivitis

The eyes are considered a very delicate part of the human body, so taking proper care of the eyes becomes imperative. However, certain conditions, like conjunctivitis, can hamper your eye comfort and disrupt your day-to-day life.

Conjunctivitis, a very common eye problem, affects 3 to 6 million people in the US every year. Conjunctivitis can be allergic or infectious, which is why you should visit a nearby asthma & allergic disease clinic for diagnosis and treatment of conjunctivitis.

What causes allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is most common in those with seasonal allergies. It develops when a person comes in contact with allergy-causing substances.

Usually, allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva, a transparent tissue over the white of the eye, becomes inflamed due to a reaction to dust mites, pollens, pet dander, or another allergen.

The symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis may be as follows:

Burning or itching in the eyes
Puffy eyelids
Pink or red eyes
Tearing or watery eyes
It usually occurs in both eyes.
Accompanied with other allergic symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, asthma, etc.

Different types of infectious conjunctivitis

Infectious conjunctivitis mainly occurs due to a bacterial or viral infection in your eyes.

Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacterial conjunctivitis is mostly caused by streptococcal or staphylococcal bacteria, which are usually present in the respiratory system or on the skin. Physical contact with an infected person, insects, contaminated makeup, etc., can bring the bacteria to you.
Viral conjunctivitis: Contagious viruses, like adenoviruses, cause viral conjunctivitis. The virus is associated with colds and may reach your eyes through the sneezing or coughing of an infected person.
Ophthalmia neonatorum: A newborn baby may get ophthalmia neonatorum, a severe bacterial conjunctivitis, due to exposure to chlamydia or gonorrhea at the time of birth. If not treated timely, it can lead to permanent damage.

The symptoms of infectious conjunctivitis may be as follows:

Viral conjunctivitis may cause watery discharge.
Bacterial conjunctivitis may cause pus discharge.
Bacterial conjunctivitis may also cause ear infections.
Crusting on eyelashes

Treatment for conjunctivitis

Depending on the type of conjunctivitis, your doctor may prescribe an over-the-counter drug to treat your condition. Sometimes, the doctor may also prescribe steroids or antibiotics to treat severe cases.

The common medications prescribed by the doctors to treat conjunctivitis are:

Artificial tears
Antibiotics
Antihistamines
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Topical corticosteroids
Mast cell stabilizers

When should you see a doctor?

Conjunctivitis can cause temporary discomfort, but if left untreated, it may get worse and may also lead to more severe issues. Therefore, you should see a doctor in case of: