Introduction
Conjunctivitis is the most common eye problem presenting to primary care. It is characterised by sore, red eyes associated with a sticky discharge.
Classification
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Purulent discharge Eyes may be 'stuck together' in the morning) |
| Viral conjunctivitis | Serous discharge Recent URTI Preauricular lymph nodes |
Epidemiology
Clinical features
Symptoms
- Red eye (95%)
- Eye irritation/itch (50%)
- Eyelid inflammation (30%)
- Eye discharge (30%)
- Watering eye (30%)
Management
Management of infective conjunctivitis
- normally a self-limiting condition that usually settles without treatment within 1-2 weeks
- topical antibiotic therapy is commonly offered to patients, e.g. Chloramphenicol. Chloramphenicol drops are given 2-3 hourly initially where as chloramphenicol ointment is given qds initially
- topical fusidic acid is an alternative and should be used for pregnant women. Treatment is twice daily
- contact lens should not be worn during an episode of conjunctivitis
- advice should be given not to share towels
- school exclusion is not necessary