DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

LOW SEVERITY

Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. Can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. Highly contagious in infectious forms.

Global Affected

600.0M

Countries

27

Symptoms

Redness in one or both eyes
Itchiness
Gritty feeling
Discharge that forms crust
Tearing
Burning sensation
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to light

Treatment Options

Antibiotic eye drops/ointment (bacterial)
Antihistamine drops (allergic)
Mast cell stabilizers
Artificial tears
Cold/warm compresses
Avoid contact lenses
Good hygiene
Supportive care (viral)

Risk Factors

1Viral/bacterial exposure
2Allergies
3Contact lens wear
4Exposure to irritants
5Compromised immune system
6Close contact settings

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Visual examination
  • 2Slit-lamp examination
  • 3Culture (severe/recurrent)
  • 4Allergy testing (if allergic suspected)

Prognosis

Excellent. Viral clears in 1-2 weeks. Bacterial improves in 2-5 days with antibiotics. Allergic manageable with avoidance and drops. Rare complications (keratitis). Not vision-threatening.

Prevention

  • Good hand hygiene
  • Don't touch eyes
  • Don't share towels/pillows
  • Change pillowcases frequently
  • Proper contact lens care
  • Avoid allergens
  • Stay home if infectious

Research Status

Viral: supportive care, self-limited. Bacterial: antibiotic drops/ointment. Allergic: antihistamine/mast cell stabilizer drops. Adenovirus most common viral cause. Good hygiene prevents spread. Distinguish from more serious conditions.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaNigeriaSouth AfricaEgyptAustraliaNew ZealandSwedenNorwayFinlandDenmarkNetherlandsBelgiumSwitzerlandAustria

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pink-eye
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.