- Main symptoms
- How long does conjunctivitis last?
- How the treatment is done
- How to get bacterial conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis is one of the most common problems of the eyes, which causes the appearance of redness, itching and the production of a thick, yellowish substance.
This type of problem is caused by an infection of the eye by bacteria and, therefore, it is usually treated with antibiotics in the form of drops or ointments, prescribed by the ophthalmologist, in addition to the correct hygiene of the eye with saline.
Main symptoms
Symptoms that usually indicate the presence of bacterial conjunctivitis include:
- Redness in the affected eye or both; Presence of thick, yellowish discharge; Excessive tears production; Itching and pain in the eyes; Hypersensitivity to light; Feeling of sand in the eyes.
In addition, there are some cases in which it is also possible to notice the appearance of a slight swelling around the eyes, not being a cause for concern or worsening of the infection. Know other symptoms of conjunctivitis.
If any of these symptoms appear, especially for more than 2 or 3 days, it is important to go to the ophthalmologist to confirm the diagnosis and start the most appropriate treatment.
How long does conjunctivitis last?
The duration of bacterial conjunctivitis varies from 10 to 14 days, even without treatment. However, when antibiotic use begins, symptoms usually disappear in just 2 to 3 days, making it possible to return to daily activities after that time, without the risk of passing the infection on to someone else.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis consists of dripping an antibiotic eye drop, prescribed by the ophthalmologist, several times a day for about 7 to 10 days. In addition, it is recommended to keep the eyes always clean and free from secretions, using a clean compress and saline. See which are the most suitable remedies for conjunctivitis.
It is also important to maintain care to avoid contagion from other people, such as daily washing and separately towels, sheets and pillowcases, washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol before after cleaning your eyes, and avoiding hugs, kisses and greetings With the hands.
In some cases, if the treatment of conjunctivitis is not done correctly, the infection may progress to the cornea, and in these situations, symptoms such as worsening of pain and increased difficulty in seeing may appear, and it is recommended to go back to the ophthalmologist to prescribe a new antibiotic.
How to get bacterial conjunctivitis
In most cases, bacterial conjunctivitis arises when you come into contact with an infected person, especially if there is no proper hygiene care. However, other factors that can also lead to the development of conjunctivitis, such as using contaminated cosmetics or brushes, poor contact lens hygiene and frequently using eye medications, in addition to having recently had eye surgery.
Having other eye problems, such as blepharitis, dry eye or changes in structure can also increase your risk of developing conjunctivitis.
Also watch the following video and see how bacterial conjunctivitis arises and what are the signs that distinguish it from other types of conjunctivitis:
