Beware of Highly Contagious Red Eye Diseases
Eye Health
Conjunctivitis or commonly called pinkeye or red eyes can be worrying, because it can make the eyes very red and spread very quickly. This condition is caused by existence
inflammation of the conjunctiva or part of the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. This eye disease can be caused by bacteria and viruses that are responsible for flu and other infections, - including ear infections, sinus infections,
and sore throat, and is the same type of bacteria that causes chlamydia and gonorrhea, two sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, pinkeye can also be caused by allergies and this tends to occur more often in children who also have other allergic conditions.
Allergic triggers for conjunctivitis include grass, pollen, animal dander and mites. Sometimes, a substance in the environment can also irritate the eyes and cause infectious eye diseases, such as chemicals or air pollutants (smoke and dust). Pinkeye can occur in newborns Newborn babies can also get pinkeye and this can develop into a more serious eye disorder, if not treated immediately. Usually, mothers who suffer from sexually transmitted diseases risk transmitting the virus to the eyes of the newborn baby. To prevent this, the doctor will give antibiotic ointment or eye drops for all babies immediately after birth.
But sometimes, this treatment causes mild chemical conjunctivitis, which usually goes away on its own. If it is known earlier, the doctor will immediately give treatment to pregnant women who suffer from sexually transmitted diseases, to prevent the spread of infection to the baby. Pinkeye symptoms depend on the type. One of the most common symptoms is that the eyes feel sore and uncomfortable like sand and the eyes become very red. In addition, eye fluids also exaggerated excessively causing both eyelids to tightly close.
Whereas, in the case of allergic conjunctivitis, the eyes feel itchy and runny are common symptoms. Pinkeye can be transmitted through direct contact with patients or with objects exposed to the virus from patients such as tissue or towels. In fact, this eye disease can spread from one eye to another by rubbing or touching infected eyes, then touching other eyes.
For prevention, make it a habit to wash your hands well and use soap. Avoid sharing eye drops, towels, or pillowcases with other family members who are experiencing pinkeye. In addition, wash towels, bed sheets, and pillowcases infected with hot water and separate them from those who are not infected.
