Conjunctivitis
Complications of conjunctivitis depend on whether the condition is an infection (infective conjunctivitis) or an allergic reaction (allergic conjunctivitis).
Ifconjunctivitis has been caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) , particularly chlamydia , the infection may last several months, rather than weeks.
Infective conjunctivitis caused by any type of bacteria can result in a number of complications, particularly in babies born prematurely (before week 37 of pregnancy).
Possible complications include:
In newborn babies (neonates) up to 28 days old, infective conjunctivitis can lead to a severe and rapidly progressive eye infection. If this isn't treated, it can cause permanent damage to the childs vision.
If your newborn baby is found to have infective conjunctivitis, they'll immediatelybe referred for specialist assessment and treatment. Their condition will be closely monitored. Complications ofinfective conjunctivitis are rare and most babies make a full recovery.
After having infective conjunctivitis caused by chlamydia, around one in five babies may develop pneumonia . This is a potentially life-threatening condition in young babies and may need treatment in hospital.
If your conjunctivitis is caused byan allergic reaction to pollen, dust mites or similar (seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis), it's very rare to experience any serious complications.
However, you may find your reoccurring symptoms frustrating. For example, if your conjunctivitis is caused by pollen, you may find it difficult to go outside during the spring and summer months without triggering your symptoms.
This type of allergic conjunctivitis can affect your daily life and could make it difficult for you to concentrate at work or school, particularly if your eyes are severely irritated. Although this can affect your quality of life, it shouldn't cause any long-term health problems.
Some types of conjunctivitis can cause a condition called keratitis. Keratitis is where your cornea (the front of your eye) becomes swollen.
This can be painful and make your eyes sensitive to light (photophobia). Ulcers sometimes form on the cornea. If the ulcers scar your cornea, your vision may be permanently damaged.
If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your GP immediately or visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department .
Conjunctivitis is a common condition that causes redness and inflammation of the thin layer of tissue that covers the front of the eye (the conjunctiva).
Read about the symptoms of conjunctivitis. The two most common symptoms are eye redness and a discharge.
Find out what causes conjunctivitis. The three most common causes are infection, allergic reaction or eye irritation.
Find out how conjunctivitis is diagnosed. Your GP will ask you about your symptoms, examine your eyes and may recommend further tests, such as a swab test.
The recommended treatment for conjunctivitis will depend on whether it's caused by infection, an allergic reaction or an irritant, such as a stray eyelash.
Complications of conjunctivitis depend on whether the condition is an infection (infective conjunctivitis) or an allergic reaction (allergic conjunctivitis).