A Complete Guide to Treating Conjunctivitis (Hong Kong Edition)

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva , the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner side of the eyelid. Common symptoms include redness, itching, tearing, a foreign body sensation, increased discharge, and eyelid swelling. While most cases of conjunctivitis are mild to moderate, treatment varies greatly depending on the cause. Improper treatment can even affect vision.

In Hong Kong, conjunctivitis can occur throughout the year, especially in spring and summer when the climate is humid, there are more dust mites and pollen, or when respiratory viruses such as influenza and adenovirus are prevalent, the number of cases will increase significantly.

The editor has consulted information from the Hong Kong Department of Health, Hospital Authority and international ophthalmology, and compiled the causes, treatment and local medical information of conjunctivitis as follows.

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1. Main types and causes of conjunctivitis

1. Viral conjunctivitis

   • Common pathogens: Adenovirus
   • Highly contagious, can be spread through droplets and contact
   • Often accompanied by an upper respiratory tract infection (such as a cold, sore throat)
   • Symptoms: Red eyes, excessive tearing, foreign body sensation, clear watery discharge

2. bacterial conjunctivitis

   • Pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, etc.
   • Moderately contagious, can be spread through hand contact, cosmetics, and shared towels
   • Symptoms: Thick yellow or green discharge, sticky eyelids, redness and swelling

3. Allergic conjunctivitis

   • Causes: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and cosmetics
   • Non-infectious, often occurs with nasal allergies and asthma
   • Symptoms: Severe itching, tearing, swollen eyelids, and sneezing

4. Other types

   • Chemical conjunctivitis (chemical, chlorine water irritation)
   • Chronic conjunctivitis (long-term contact lens wear, dry eyes, etc.)

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2. Treatment methods (classified by cause)

Treatment of conjunctivitis must be directed at the cause; otherwise, it may be ineffective or even worsen.

1. Viral conjunctivitis

• There is no specific medicine , and most cases will heal on their own within 1-2 weeks.
• Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
  • Cold compresses to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort
  • Use artificial tears (preservative-free)
  • Maintain strict personal hygiene to avoid infection
• Note : If accompanied by decreased vision, photophobia or increased pain, seek medical attention immediately to rule out complications such as keratitis

2. Bacterial conjunctivitis

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments (such as chloramphenicol, erythromycin)
• Generally, it takes 7-10 days to use, and symptoms usually improve within a few days.
• Pay attention to complete the full course of treatment to prevent relapse
• Oral antibiotics for severe cases (assessed by a doctor)

3. Allergic conjunctivitis

• Antihistamine eye drops (such as Olopatadine)
• Mast cell stabilizers (to prevent allergic reactions)
• Avoid contact with allergens
• Cold compress to relieve itching

4. Chemical conjunctivitis

• Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water or saline.
• Severe irritation requires emergency room treatment to prevent corneal damage

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3. Treatment Resources and Costs in Hong Kong

Public hospitals/general outpatient clinics

• Advantages : Low cost (about $50 for a general outpatient visit and $135 for a specialist outpatient visit)
• Disadvantages : Long waiting times, emergency rooms are only for serious or emergency cases

Private ophthalmology/general practice clinics

• Advantages : Short waiting time, same-day diagnosis and treatment
• Disadvantages : Costs range from $300 to $800 (depending on the drug and clinic)

💡Editor ’s Tip :
If bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected, seeking medical attention early can prevent the condition from worsening and becoming contagious. Patients with allergic conjunctivitis should also address the allergens, such as changing pillowcases and using dust mite-proof bedding.

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IV. Daily care and prevention

• Wash your hands frequently and avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Do not share towels or cosmetics
• Contact lens wearers should follow cleaning regulations
• Wear sunglasses when going out to reduce wind and dust irritation
• Reduce outdoor activities or wear masks and glasses during allergy season

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5. When is it necessary to seek medical attention immediately?

• Sudden loss of vision
• Severe eye pain and photophobia
• Eye injury or exposure to chemicals
• Symptoms that do not improve or worsen after several days of treatment

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💬Let me tell you :
Many Hong Kong people rush to the pharmacy to buy eye drops when they experience red eyes. However, choosing the wrong medication can backfire. For example, using steroid-containing drops for viral conjunctivitis can accelerate viral proliferation. The safest approach is to see a doctor first to determine the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment. Contact lens wearers should be especially aware of the risk of corneal infection.

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⚠️ Disclaimer <br>This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. It is sourced from major medical articles.