Viral Vs. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is defined as an eye problem causing swelling, an inflammation, or an infection of conjunctiva, which is the transparent membrane lining the eyelids. It is observed in 3 types, namely, allergic, irritant, and infective. The allergic type is caused due to eye contact with a substance causing inflammation and irritation, or allergen.

The irritant type results due to an irritant entry into the eyes, making them painful. The last one, infective, is triggered due to a viral, bacterial, or sexually transmitted infection. It is the most commonly observed type.

Species of bacteria, which instigate ear and lung infections, are more likely to trigger this disease. It is normally characterized by broadening in the lymph node, which is a small gland contributing to the immune system, as well as increased sensitivity to light. In case of viral infections, adenovirus is the most likely cause.

Elderly people, due to their weak immune system, are more prone to an eye infection. Children also are at a risk of getting infected because of direct contact with infection at school or at a day care. In this story, you will read the viral Vs. bacterial conjunctivitis comparison to know the difference between the two of them.

Comparison

• Symptoms initially show up in one eye, and then appear in other eye, after a few days.
• It has a fine, watery discharge, and a greater tear production, in general.
• The eyes do not stick together due to discharge.
• It has no recommended specific treatment, and alleviates on its own after lasting for about 5 -7 days.
• Infection lasts as long as the virus resides.

• Symptoms appear in both eyes simultaneously.
• It has an excessive, yellowish-green discharge.
• The eyes stick together due to discharge accumulation, formed due to pus and mucus created during sleep.
• Antibiotic pills and antibiotic ointments work best for alleviating this infection.
• Symptoms usually ward off within a day after administering antibiotics.

• Consumption of vitamin A and B2 is advised.
• Salt water eye drops, which take off yellowish discharge, is one of the best remedies.
• Avoid the use of contact lenses until a day after completion of antibiotics course.
• Smoothly clean sticky deposits with a cotton ball drenched in water.

• Lubricant eye drops can be used to alleviate sored eyes.
• Wash your hands, especially after any direct contact with eyes, to prevent spreading the infection.

The best way prevent the infection from spreading is to wash your hands if you come in direct contact with the infected area. This applies even if someone close to you is infected and you come in direct contact with the person. Sharing handkerchiefs, bed sheets, towels, etc., should be strictly avoided

If there is an epidemic, you may consider not sending your child to school or day care until it subsides. It's better to medicate (antibiotics through IV) pregnant women to keep their neonate away from the infection. Eye drops should be administered to babies, right away after the delivery.

This was the information on eye care and symptoms and treatment in case of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis. In any case, initiating timely treatment will prevent from further complications.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.