Conjunctivitis

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The conjunctiva is the tissue that is present around the eyeball; it serves as a lining around same and the eyelid and third eyelid.  When this tissue becomes swollen and/or inflamed this is referred to as conjunctivitis.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

 There are numerous causes for conjunctivitis:

• Bacterial Infections
• Viral Infections
• Tear deficiency (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
• Environmental Irritants
• Chemical Irritants
• Allergies
• Trauma

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Eye appears bloodshot
• Discharge from the eye
• Excessive blinking
• Holding the eye(s) closed
• Excessive rubbing of the eye(s)
• The third eyelid may be protruding

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam.  Your veterinarian will be most likely do the following:

• Eye exam with opthalmoscope - Your veterinarian will likely perform a complete eye exam using an opthalmoscope with a light and high magnification to examine your pet’s eyes for any abnormalities.
• Corneal stain - a fluorescent dye is placed in the eye and then examined with an ultraviolet light.  If an ulcer is present it will glow green under the UV light.  Your veterinarian can now evaluate size and location of ulcer.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatment for conjunctivitis is focused on finding and treating the specific cause and may include both topical and systemic medications. Topical eye medications such as drops or ointments are commonly used, and oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications may also be used.

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

There is no prevention for conjunctivitis.