Follicular conjunctivitis is a type of pink eye caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or STDs. Symptoms include redness, irritation, and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment involves artificial eye drops and rest, as antibiotics are ineffective.
Follicular conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that covers the eyeball. When the conjunctiva becomes infected with viruses, bacteria or allergens, it becomes red and irritated. This particular type of conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is usually caused by a virus, such as chicken pox or herpes simplex, although it can also result from chlamydia, a cold, or an allergy to certain medications. It is often distinguished from other types of conjunctivitis by the yellow and pink sores that can appear on the eyelids, since these are lymph node tissues. Like viral conjunctivitis in general, the best cure is usually time, as antibiotics cannot treat it effectively.
The symptoms of follicular conjunctivitis are similar to those that appear in most cases of pink eye. For example, the eye is often irritated and red, with a sensation of a foreign body in it. Many people also notice yellow or green discharge, swollen eyes, and fever. Unlike other types of pink eye, follicular conjunctivitis is often accompanied by swelling and discomfort in the lymph nodes found near the ears. Of course, the lymphatic tissue in the lower eyelid is also usually inflamed.
There are various viruses that can cause follicular conjunctivitis, including herpes simplex, shingles, and adenovirus. Of course, more common conditions can also cause this type of pink eye, such as a cold or any number of various allergens. For example, dust, pollen or smoke in the eyes can cause the conjunctiva to become red and inflamed. An allergic reaction can also be caused by prescribed medications, especially eye drops used to treat conditions such as glaucoma.
Some STDs can also cause follicular conjunctivitis. For example, gonorrhea is a disease that affects the mucous membranes, so it’s no surprise that the eyes of patients with this STD are also often affected by pink eye. Also, chlamydia is the cause of some cases of this condition, although it is rare and usually only affects children. This is because newborns can get the disease from their mother at birth, but eye drops are often given to babies with infected mothers to prevent the condition from forming after delivery.
Similar to most other types of pink eye, the follicular type can’t be cured with medication, but its symptoms can be treated as it heals. For example, artificial eye drops can be used to help eliminate the feeling of grittiness and dryness, providing relief while you wait for time and rest for the eye to heal. Despite the lack of treatment options, those who suspect they have this condition are encouraged to visit their doctor to get an official diagnosis.
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