Bacterial conjunctivitis is an infection of the eye caused by contagious bacteria, such as strep or staph. Symptoms include redness, itching, and excessive tears, and treatment usually involves antibiotics. It is common in people of all ages and usually does not cause long-term health problems.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is an acute infection of one or both eyes. Infection occurs when the clear outer layer of the eye called the conjunctiva is exposed to a contagious bacteria, such as a strain of strep or staphylococcus. Bacterial pinkeye is common in people of all ages and geographic areas and doesn’t usually cause long-term health problems. Topical or oral antibiotics are usually very effective at relieving symptoms and promoting rapid recovery.
Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is a common ailment of children and adults. Viruses are usually the culprit for pinkeye infection, but some types of bacteria can also grow and thrive in the conjunctiva. Staphylococci, streptococci, chlamydia, gonorrhea, or one of several less common contagious bacteria can cause pink eye symptoms. Young children, the elderly, and people with autoimmune diseases are at the highest risk of getting bacterial conjunctivitis due to their weak immune systems. Also, a baby may develop conjunctivitis at birth if the mother has an active chlamydial or gonorrhea infection.
Bacterial conjunctivitis usually causes noticeable symptoms within a day or two of being infected. The eye becomes red, itchy and tender and may produce excessive tears. As an infection worsens, thick yellowish pus tends to build up and ooze from under the eyelid. The pus hardens and thickens as it dries, leading to crusting. Some people are unable to open their eyes in the morning due to excessive crust buildup.
A person suffering from bacterial conjunctivitis can usually relieve some of their symptoms at home. A warm, damp washcloth can help remove the scab, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain and itching. If symptoms worsen or persist for more than a week, an individual should make an appointment with their doctor.
A doctor can usually diagnose pinkeye by examining the eye and asking about symptoms. He or she can scrape a small sample of infected tissue and have it tested for specific pathogens. After determining the type of bacteria involved, your doctor can determine the best course of treatment.
In most cases, patients are prescribed antibiotic eye drops or topical ointments to be applied daily. Serious infections caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea may require a course of oral medications. In addition to the use of medications, patients are given information on how to prevent others from getting infected, such as not sharing towels and washing hands regularly. Most people experience a complete recovery from bacterial conjunctivitis within about two weeks.
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