Conjunctivitis or pink eye is a
common condition that spreads rapidly from one person to another. It is often
caused by a
bacterial or
viral infection. Though not a serious condition, it spreads like an
epidemic due to carelessness on the part of the person who suffers from it and
the people around.
Allergic conjunctivitis and conjunctivitis due to chemicals
or irritants are also types of conjunctivitis, but which does not spread from
person to person.
Though some people suggest
that pink eye can spread by merely being in a room with a person whose eyes are
affected by the condition, this is untrue. Conjunctivitis spreads through
secretions from the eye.
Thus, if a person touches his/her eye, he/she can pass
on the infective virus or bacteria to another person or object that comes in
contact with the secretion.
Thus, the spread of
conjunctivitis can be prevented by adopting simple methods to maintain hygiene.
The recent weather changes with the advent of the
cold
season coupled with rain have resulted in a large number of cases in
South India.
Viral conjunctivitis is also referred to as Madras Eye in India.
Here are some steps that you could follow to avoid conjunctivitis or prevent
spreading it if you already suffer from the condition.
Wash your hands with soap and water at times of an epidemic. Carry an
alcohol-based sanitizer with you to use when you do not have access to soap and
water.
Avoid touching your eyes with your hand or any object like a handkerchief.
Do not share eye makeup or eye medicines.
If you suffer from conjunctivitis or Madras eye,
Wash your eyes regularly and wipe with a disposable tissue. After that,
immediately sterilize your hands. Do not leave the tissue lying around.
Avoid going to your place of work or school till you recover completely.
Any linen that you use like towels, bed sheets and pillow covers should be
washed with hot water and detergent.
Do not wear
contact
lenses or any eye or face makeup.
Avoid going to the swimming pool or using the gym or other equipment that are
used commonly by other people.
Sterilize
eyeglasses and contact lenses
once you recover from the condition
If only one eye is affected, avoid touching the other eye.
Apply a warm or cold compress to the affected eye to sooth it. And do not
forget to wash your hands after that.
Do not forget to visit a doctor as soon as symptoms set in to control the
infection. The doctor will prescribe eye drops; do not share these with anyone.
Source: Medindia
Careers
