It is better to know the most common issues of the eyes that need to be treated efficiently. Amidst the common conditions and problems are conjunctivitis and eye flu, which people usually confuse with each other. They may share some symptoms, but causes, implications, and treatments are not the same. Here in this post, we will find out what makes these two different and gain insights from experts at the best eye hospital in Kolkata.
Understanding Conjunctivitis
What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, also called “pink eye,” is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin, translucent membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surfaces of the eyelids. Its cause can be attributed to various agents, including:
- Viral: is generally associated with common colds or other respiratory infections.
- Bacterial: caused by bacteria, which often manifest with yellow or green discharge.
- Allergies: It can be due to pollen, dander dust mites, and many other allergens.
- Irritants: Chemical irritation also includes chlorine, which is encountered in pools, and smoke; these can cause conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis Symptoms
The symptoms might vary according to the cause, but in most cases, the following symptoms are included:
- Redness in the white part of the eye
- Itching or irritability, which may lead to the excessive production of tears
- Discharge may be clear or yellow or green.
- Photophobia and gritty feeling to the eyes
- Scaly eyelids in the morning due to overnight discharge
Types of Conjunctivitis
- Viral Conjunctivitis: Typically self-limiting, this type is usually highly contagious and tends to epidemic in a community setting.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This is usually antibiotic responsive, and it is also infectious characterized by being marked exudative.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: This is not infectious and tends to be seasonal or to specific allergens, often responds to antihistamines.
- Chemical Conjunctivitis: This is caused by exposure to irritants or toxic substances and is also usually treated with eye flushing and warning the patient to avoid further exposure.
Eye Flu Facts
What is Eye Flu?
Viral conjunctivitis, or commonly referred to as eye flu, is specifically a form of conjunctivitis caused by viral infections. It is worth pointing out that although eye flu is a term used for conjunctivitis, not all conjunctivitis conditions are eye flu. The viruses behind eye flu are usually the same viruses responsible for common colds and influenza.
Eye Flu Symptoms
The symptoms of eye flu typically overlap with those of other types of conjunctivitis but tend to include:
- Redness and tearing of the eyes
- Itchy or burning feeling
- Clear or a type of mucous
- Swollen eyelids or feeling of pressure around the eyes
- Sensitivity to light, which can be painful
How Eye Flu Is Spread
Eye flu is highly contagious. It often is spread by:
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Touching contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, towels, or computer keyboards, and then touching your eyes
- Respiratory droplets from sneezing or coughing also can pass along the virus
Read here for more:- How Eye Flu Spreads: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention?
Conjunctivitis vs. Eye Flu: What’s the Difference?
Knowing the difference between conjunctivitis and eye flu is important in making an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here is a side-by-side comparison:
| Attribute | Conjunctivitis | Eye Flu |
|---|
| Cause | Bacterial, viral, allergic, irritants | Viral infection (usually same as cold) |
| Discharge | Can be watery, yellow, or green | Usually watery or mucoid |
| Contagious | Viral and bacterial types are contagious | Highly contagious |
| Treatment | Effective by causative agent. Often includes antibiotics | Self-limiting. No specific treatment |
How Are They Diagnosed?
Diagnosis at the Best Eye Hospital in Kolkata
When you visit an authentic eye hospital for diagnosis, the following are what your doctor will include:
- Eye examination using various equipment to assess the condition of your eyes
- A detailed medical history to know whether you have a specific allergy or medical condition.
- Swab tests for discharge identification of bacterial infections, which determines further appropriate treatment.
It is, therefore, important to visit a doctor whenever you suspect that you are developing conjunctivitis or eye flu, especially when the symptoms continue to worsen and persist.
Treatment Options
General Treatment for Conjunctivitis
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Treatment is mainly on antibiotic eye drops or ointments. This is quite effective in reducing symptoms and preventing further transmission.
- Viral Conjunctivitis (Eye Flu): This type of conjunctivitis usually self-limiting. As an adjunctive measure, a patient with this type may be advised to use cold compresses and artificial tears as well as available over-the-counter antihistamines.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: It is best treated by avoiding allergens. It may require antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops for relief.
- Chemical Conjunctivitis: the main treatment is to irrigate the eyes with saline or clean water. Further follow-up may be necessary depending on the level of exposure.
Eye Flu Medication
There is no treatment for eye flu, but it is possible to alleviate symptoms using:
- Cool compresses applied to the eyes to assist in the discomfort and swelling of the eyes
- Artificial tears helping the eye to have a lubricating effect and reduce the feeling of dryness in the eyes.
- Antiviral medications if it is somehow linked to a serious viral infection, though this is more rare.
Preventive Measures
How to prevent conjunctivitis and eye flu
To avoid getting conjunctivitis or spreading it to someone else, some of the tips on preventing conjunctivitis and eye flu are as follows:
Maintaining Good Hygiene:
- Always ensure you wash your hands with soap and water as much as you can, especially after touching your face or eyes.
- Avoid touching the eyes, as it will introduce some bacteria or viruses into the system.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items:
- Do not share towels, pillows, or makeup products to prevent cross-infection.
Avoid Allergens:
- Keep windows closed during pollen seasons; if that cannot be done, use an air purifier to reduce allergens in the house.
Avoid Close Contact:
- If you, or someone close to you, has conjunctivitis, avoid close contact until your symptoms improve.
Practice Safe Swimming:
- Do not swim in swimming pools of poor water quality; wear goggles in chlorinated swimming to reduce irritation.
FAQs about Conjunctivitis and Eye Flu
- Is conjunctivitis contagious?
Yes, both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be contagious. Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of the infection to others. - How long does the eye flu last?
Eye flu symptoms last from a few days up to two weeks. It is usually self-limiting, meaning it resolves without special treatment. - Do I need to see a doctor for conjunctivitis?
If symptoms persist or worsen, see a health care professional, especially if there is severe pain, blurring of vision, or marked redness. - Should I wear contact lenses when experiencing conjunctivitis?
You should avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms have improved because this may exacerbate irritation and increase the risk for secondary infection. - Is there a vaccine for eye flu?
There is no vaccine for eye flu as of date. The only available preventive measure in terms of hygiene is actually the best defense against such a condition. - What are some home remedies that help one alleviate symptoms?
Some of the home remedies include warm or cold compresses that could help ease symptoms, and one of them keeps the eyes lubricated by applying artificial tears, making the discomfort tolerable without the need for medication. - What are the complications of having conjunctivitis if it is left untreated?
It heals without complications in most cases. In case the bacterial infection of the conjunctiva is not treated, it might cause other infections in the eyes or may affect vision in various ways.
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis and eye flu are conditions that must be understood in order for them to be managed and treated effectively. Though conjunctivitis can be caused by many things, eye flu is caused by a viral infection. In case you notice any sign or symptom of either condition, you should see a medical professional.
Visits to the best eye hospitals in Kolkata for the most expert care and personalized treatments mean finding and receiving the best medical attention there is. Knowledge is power when it comes to eye health and keeps you well-informed on how best to protect your vision.
