How to Beat Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial Conjunctivitis is an unpleasant event in life. It is caused by an increase in the bacteria on and around the eye. We naturally have a certain amount of bacteria all the time. However, their population can get out of control when your immunity is low. New populations may be introduced by rubbing your eye with unclean hands, or via a sinus or ear infection. The body tries to fight the influx and suddenly you have a red, sore and gunky eyeball with a day or two off work.

Typical signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis:

• Quick onset of sore, red, swollen eye
• Mucopurulent discharge (pus and mucous) - often sticking your eyelashes together
• Responds quickly to antibiotic eyedrops or ointment
• Your Optometrist will usually see papillae in the lower eyelid

Treatment

Antibiotic eyedrops or ointment, depending on the severity of the infection, is the quickest way back to healthy eyes. You should feel relief within 2 days. Finish the course of antibiotic to make sure you've killed the infection. At the same time, it is a good idea to boost your immunity with dietary supplements like Echinacea.

Which bugs are most common?

• Staphlococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Haemophilus influenzae (not flu)

Afterwards: Wash and disinfect all surfaces that were likely to be in contact with your eyes such as bedlinen, face cloths and bath towels. You don't want to re-infect yourself.