Conjunctivitis

Viral infections of the eyes are the most common causes of conjunctivitis.  

Allergens that may cause conjunctivitis include pollens, grasses, dust mites, animal fur and moulds. Less frequently, food allergies may contribute to the problem.

Contact irritants such as chlorine may also be involved, and irritation from the use of contact lenses may be a factor for some people.

• A cold compress may help to relieve the symptoms of conjunctivitis. Unless you are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae/Compositae families (e.g. daisies, echinacea), natural therapists sometimes recommend an eyewash or compress using chamomile tea. To make this, pour boiling water over 1-2 chamomile teabags and allow to steep for 20 minutes before removing the teabag; dip cotton balls in the cooled liquid and use them to soothe and wash the eyes. Use the eyewash 2-3 times per day, making a fresh batch each time to avoid contamination. 
• If dust or irritants have caused the problem, flushing the eyes with saline solution to remove them may help. Take steps to protect your eyes from further irritation. For example, use eye protection when cycling, swimming, or using industrial materials such as chemicals or powdered cement. 
• Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are highly contagious. Unless you take preventive measures, the condition may spread to your other eye or to other people. 
• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands often and well, and keeping them away from the infected eye.  
• Avoid sharing bedding, towels, face washers or handkerchiefs with other family members.  
• Infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, so contact with others should be avoided. For example, children with infectious conjunctivitis should be kept home from school. 
• Keep your home clean and well ventilated to reduce the build-up of dust mites, animal hair and mould.
  

Consult your healthcare professional if:

• Swelling, itching and redness of the eyes develops suddenly and is accompanied by hives, breathing difficulties or stomach cramps. Seek urgent medical assistance. This may be symptomatic of anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).
• Your eyes become red when you wear contact lenses; you may need to switch to a different form of lens or lens solution, or you may need to wear your contact lenses for shorter periods of time 
• You experience blurred or hazy vision 
• One eye is exceptionally sore, watering or producing pus; a foreign body may be lodged beneath the eyelid 
• Your conjunctivitis recurs frequently or appears to be getting worse after a week of home treatment 
• Your new-born baby's eyes are inflamed and are not producing tears