This easy-to-treat eye infection can be prevented by changing some of your habits.

Conjunctivitis, otherwise known as “red eyes”, is caused by inflammation of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It is a common condition, mainly because of the location of the conjunctiva, which is exposed to numerous micro-organisms and other harmful elements in the environment.

The most common symptoms include red eyes, irritation, itching, swelling, glassy looking eyes, intermittent tearing, extreme photophobia (sensitivity to light), and the feeling that you have something in your eye.

Conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes at the same time. It can start in one and spread to the other a couple of days later. It lasts between ten days and four weeks and is usually benign and does not affect vision, but it may become complicated if not adequately treated.

Types of conjunctivitis

According to the origin of the infection or irritation, there are several types of conjunctivitis:

• Infectious: this is responsible for about a third of cases of conjunctivitis diagnosed and may be due to a virus or bacteria.
• Allergic reaction: this accounts for a quarter of cases of conjunctivitis. It happens when the eyes have been exposed to a substance to which a person is allergic (plant pollens, dust mites, animal hair…) causing an inflammation of the conjunctiva.
• Irritative: This is due to infection of the edge of the eyelid caused by contact with irritating substances present in the air, such as solvents, paints, chlorine in swimming pools, use of contact lenses, or even a dry climate.

You must go to the doctor, who will diagnose a suitable treatment, if you experience any irritation or discomfort.

Tips for preventing eye disorders

The best way of avoiding conjunctivitis is to try to avoid the allergen. To do this, you may need to change some of your habits and cleanse your eyes to prevent conjunctivitis:

1. Always read in well-lit places and, if possible, with natural light. If you work with a computer, try to rest your eyes from time to time, focusing on points which are near and far away from you to exercise the eyes.
2. Stay away from places where there is a lot of pollen or other substances, especially if you’re allergic. When there is a high pollen count, stay inside, avoid the open air and close the windows at home.
3. Vacuum your house, paying attention to furniture, carpets, sofas and blankets that may contain dust, pet hair or dust mites.
4. Avoid contact with the dirt: don’t rub your eyes with your fingers when they itch or when you are tired. It is preferable to wash them with water or to use natural eye drops.
5. Remedy using chamomile: make an infusion of this herb to use as natural eye drops. Steep a teaspoon of dried flowers in a cup of warm water for 15 minutes. Then soak a cotton swab or gauze and apply to the eyes.

In the case of infectious conjunctivitis, follow these guidelines to avoid spreading the infection:

1. Do not share anything that has been in contact with the infected eye (sheets, towels, eye pencils, pillows, etc.)
2. Wash your hands if you have been in contact with someone who has conjunctivitis
3. Wipe away discharge from your eyes twice a day with warm water, and remove crusts or other scabs.
4. Discard contact lenses that have been inside your infected eyes, as the disinfectant solution is not able to remove all the bacteria.

Remember that the health of your eyes also depends on what you eat. A healthy, balanced diet, rich in vitamin A (eggs, pulses), beta carotene (carrots, spinach, asparagus), vitamin C (peppers, oranges, kiwis) and anthocyanidins (blueberries, plums, eggplants) will help to keep your eyes healthy.

We receive half of the information from around us through our eyes. They are an essential part of the body. That's why you should look after them.

This post is also available in: Spanish