Kannur: Pink eye conjunctivitis is becoming widespread in the state. This time, viral conjunctivitis is more common than bacterial conjunctivitis. Therefore, the disease takes more days to recover. The severity of the disease is also higher in some people. Even if it is of both types, the disease can spread quickly. If one person gets pink eye, the others in the house are also at high risk of getting the disease. Therefore, precautions should be taken. If you get pink eye, do not self-medicate. In some people, the disease may become complicated and affect vision.

Virus or bacteria? Identification is necessary

Conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. The infection can be viral or bacterial. It is important to identify which infection is causing the infection to determine the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bacterial infection include redness in the eyes. Swelling and thickening of the eyelids. Difficulty opening the eyes. Tearing, itching, and discomfort. Eye discomfort when exposed to light. A feeling of grittiness in the eyes.

But if the cause is a virus, the eye will not be swollen. There will be slight redness in the eye, swelling of the eyelid, a feeling of dirt trapped, and pain. There are various subtypes of the virus. The severity of the disease may vary accordingly.

Things to watch out for

  • Maintain good personal hygiene.
  • Maintain physical distance from infected people.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Do not touch your eyes with unwashed hands.
  • Do not use items such as towels, soap, mobile phones, pens, etc. that were used by the patient.
  • Children with pink eye should not be sent to school. The eyes should be given a chance to rest.
  • The patient should refrain from activities that strain the eyes. Looking at mobile phones and TV can increase eye strain.