Not all infections of the eye are Conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva-the thin transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It maybe caused due to microbes(infectious organisms), allergens, toxic chemicals etc. Patients commonly refer to this as a “pink eye” or “red eye”. The treatment of each is based on the underlying cause.
It is imperative for the public to know that not all red eyes have the same treatment, and hence they shouldn’t take this symptom lightly. Often, individuals seek “telephonic consultations and prescriptions” which may not be the appropriate treatment without a complete check up on the Slit-Lamp based evaluation at the Eye Doctor’s clinic.
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, commonly known as “corneal ulcer” and can broadly be divided into infective and non-infective. This also produces a red eye, but can rapidly worsen with over-the-counter medications, which often contain steroids.
Infective keratitis can be caused by a number of pathogens, the most common being bacteria, fungi, virus. They require a detailed examination, microbiological work-up to isolate the causative pathogen and accordingly target treatment for the same. Such cases require frequent follow-ups, frequent administration of drugs (drops or injections) to prevent the infection from spreading into deeper layers and penetrating other structures of the eye.
MICROBIAL KERATITIS
Non infective keratitis may require a systemic evaluation to rule out an underlying causative factor. They may require systemic immunosuppressants based on the underlying etiology. Treatment of all these disorders is carried out at Jehan Eye Clinic.