Bacterial conjunctivitis is infection caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniaewhich affect the conjunctiva of the eye, which is the membrane that covers the white part of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids, resulting in symptoms such as redness, itching and the production of thick, yellowish secretion.
These bacteria can be transmitted through close contact with a person who also has conjunctivitis or by using contaminated makeup brushes or accessories.
The treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis is carried out by an ophthalmologist and involves the use of antibiotics in the form of drops or ointments, in addition to correct eye hygiene with saline solution.
Symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis
The main symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis are:
- Redness in the affected eye;
- Thick, yellowish or purulent secretion;
- Excessive tearing;
- Irritation or burning or stinging sensation in the eye;
- Itching or pain in the eyes;
- Increased sensitivity to light;
- Feeling of sand in the eyes.
The symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis can appear in one or both eyes and, in some cases, there may also be slight swelling around the eyes, especially at night, or even blurred or blurred vision due to the production of secretion. Learn about other symptoms of conjunctivitis.
If symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis appear, especially for more than 2 or 3 days, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist to confirm the diagnosis and begin the most appropriate treatment.
Don’t ignore your symptoms!
To find out your risk of having conjunctivitis, mark the symptoms you present on the test below:
The symptom test is only a guidance tool and does not serve as a diagnosis or replace a consultation with an ophthalmologist.
Possible causes
Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosafor example.
These bacteria cause inflammation in the conjunctiva of the eye, leading to a dilation of its blood vessels and the appearance of symptoms.
Furthermore, other bacteria, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae e Chlamydia trachomatis can cause bacterial conjunctivitis mainly in newborns, but it can also affect sexually active adolescents or adults and be accompanied by symptoms in the genital region. Know how to identify the symptoms of gonorrhea and trichomoniasis.
How do you get bacterial conjunctivitis
In most cases, bacterial conjunctivitis appears when you come into contact with an infected person, especially if there is no adequate hygiene care.
However, other factors that can also lead to the development of conjunctivitis, such as using contaminated cosmetics or brushes, poor contact lens hygiene and frequent use of medication in the eye, as well as having recently had eye surgery.
Having other eye problems such as blepharitis, dry eye, or changes in structure can also increase your risk of developing conjunctivitis.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of bacterial conjunctivitis is made by an ophthalmologist by evaluating symptoms, health history and examining the eyes to assess the conjunctiva, as well as whether there are lesions on the cornea.
In addition, the doctor can take a sample of secretion from the eye to be analyzed in the laboratory and identify the bacteria responsible for conjunctivitis.
How the treatment is carried out
The treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis must be carried out under the guidance of an ophthalmologist and normally involves the use of antibiotic eye drops or ophthalmic ointments, such as chloramphenicol, neomycin sulfate, polymyxin B sulfate or moxifloxacin, for example. See the main remedies for conjunctivitis.
In the case of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by gonorrhea or trichomoniasis, antibiotics in tablet form are generally indicated, associated with the use of eye drops. For newborns, hospitalization is necessary to receive intravenous antibiotics.
Furthermore, it is recommended to always keep your eyes clean and free of secretions, using a clean compress and saline solution.
In some cases, if the treatment of conjunctivitis is not carried out correctly, the infection can progress to the cornea, and in these situations, symptoms such as worsening pain and increased difficulty in seeing may appear, making it recommended to return to the ophthalmologist to prescribe a new antibiotic.
Care during treatment
During the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid infecting other people, such as washing towels, sheets and pillowcases daily and separately, washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol before cleaning your eyes, and avoid hugs, kisses and handshakes.
How long does conjunctivitis last?
Bacterial conjunctivitis usually lasts between 10 and 14 days, even without treatment. However, when antibiotics are started, the symptoms usually disappear in just 2 to 3 days, and it is possible to return to daily activities after this time, without the risk of passing the infection to someone else.
