Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is the most common eye problem presenting to primary care. It is characterised by sore, red eyes associated with a sticky discharge
Management of infective conjunctivitis
Management of allergic conjunctivitis
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Purulent discharge Eyes may be 'stuck together' in the morning) |
|---|---|
| Viral conjunctivitis | Serous discharge Recent URTI Preauricular lymph nodes |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Bilateral symptoms Itch is prominent May be history of atopy May be seasonal (due to pollen) or perennial (due to dust mite, washing powder or other allergens) |
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
Management of allergic conjunctivitis
- topical or systemic antihistamines
- topical mast-cell stabilisers, e.g. Sodium cromoglicate and nedocromil