WEBDESK: Hospitals in the Twin Cities are witnessing a steep increase in conjunctivitis (pink eye), with children, women and elderly residents among the worst affected. The sudden spread of the infection has also led to a noticeable rise in demand for rose water in local markets.
According to hospital officials, more than 2,100 patients with eye infections have been treated over the past three days at Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto General Hospital and the District Headquarters Hospital. Private clinics across Rawalpindi and Islamabad have also reported a surge in patients seeking treatment.
Deputy Medical Superintendent Dr Inayat confirmed that this is the second major outbreak of conjunctivitis in Rawalpindi and Islamabad within the last nine months. He urged the public to adopt preventive measures to limit the spread of the infection.
Conjunctivitis symptoms
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, can affect one or both eyes. The most common symptoms include redness, irritation, watery or sticky discharge, swelling of the eyelids, and a gritty feeling in the eye. Some patients also experience crusting around the lashes after sleep and increased tearing.
In bacterial conjunctivitis, the discharge is usually thick, yellow or green, and can cause the eyelids to stick together.
Viral conjunctivitis tends to produce a more watery discharge and often spreads quickly from one eye to the other.
Allergic conjunctivitis is marked by strong itching, watery eyes, and is often linked with other allergy symptoms such as sneezing or a runny nose.
Doctors advise seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms include severe pain, blurred vision, or extreme sensitivity to light.
Conjunctivitis Treatment
The treatment depends on its cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is often treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments, which help clear the infection within a few days.
Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own in one to two weeks; patients are advised to keep the eyes clean, avoid touching them, and use cold compresses to relieve discomfort.
Allergic conjunctivitis is managed by removing exposure to the allergen, using anti-allergy eye drops, and applying soothing cold compresses.
Doctors recommend washing hands frequently, avoiding the sharing of towels or pillows, and wearing dark glasses to reduce irritation and protect the eyes.
Lubricating eye drops may also provide relief.
Patients experiencing severe pain, vision changes, or symptoms that do not improve should seek medical attention without delay.
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