Linking Feces and Conjunctivitis: Examination and Remedies
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is a common eye condition that can affect individuals of all ages. This article aims to provide insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including allergens, bacteria, and viruses. Allergic conjunctivitis is more common in people with seasonal allergies, while bacterial conjunctivitis is often due to staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria from the skin or respiratory system. Other causes include physical contact with others, insects, using contaminated eye products, and foreign bodies in the eye. In some cases, bacteria from the anus can cause bacterial conjunctivitis if they come into contact with the eye.
Contagious viruses with links to the common cold are the most common cause of viral conjunctivitis. Feces in swimming pools can increase the risk of transmitting infections such as adenoviruses, a common cause of viral conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include the white of the eye looking pink or red, swelling of the eyes or eyelids, watery or teary eyes, irritation, itching or burning sensation, discharge such as pus or mucus. If a person experiences eye pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, intense redness of the eyes, symptoms that are not improving or worsening, a weakened immune system, bacterial conjunctivitis that is not improving after 24 hours of taking antibiotics, or if a newborn has conjunctivitis, it is important to contact a doctor immediately.
Preventive measures include regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. To help prevent conjunctivitis from feces, it is important to always wash the hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water after using the toilet or touching the anus before touching the eyes. People must also avoid swimming pools if they have conjunctivitis to help prevent passing it on to others.
Treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis involves antibiotic ointment or eyedrops. The most common bacteria responsible for bacterial conjunctivitis when they come into contact with the eyes are Staphylococci, followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe topical steroid drops for viral conjunctivitis or antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis.
Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves by itself within 2 to 3 weeks. However, there is no treatment for viral conjunctivitis as antibiotics do not work on viruses. Taking the full course of antibiotics for bacterial conjunctivitis is important to prevent the infection from recurring.
The AOA states that symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis may improve within 3 to 4 days with treatment. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe topical steroid drops for viral conjunctivitis or antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis.
In summary, conjunctivitis is a common eye condition with various causes, symptoms, and treatments. By understanding the causes and practising good hygiene, individuals can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis and seek medical attention when necessary.
