Eyes

Question 1

Signs of viral conjuctivitis

Answer 1

• Redness of conjunctiva
• Watery discharge
• Mild

Question 2

Hygiene advice for viral and bacterial conjunctivitis

Answer 2

• Do not share towels
• Clean eyes with cooled boiled water with a cotton pad
• Wash hands frequently

Question 3

Signs of bacterial conjunctivitis

Answer 3

• Redness of conjunctiva
• Purulent discharge, crusting when waking
• Gritty burning sensation

Question 4

Treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis

Answer 4

Chloramphenicol eye drops: Optrex- use if symptoms persist 3 days with no improvement or severe

Question 4

Signs of allergic conjunctivitis

Answer 4

• Bilateral ocular itching
• Watery discharge
• Conjunctival redness

Question 4

Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis

Answer 4

• Topical antihistamines: optrex allergy eye drops
• Oral antihistamines- Piriton

Question 5

Difference between blepharitis and conjunctivitis?

Answer 5

Bleph has swollen eyelids whilst conjunctivitis does not!

Question 5

Treatment for blepharitis

Answer 5

• Eyedrops: Brolene eye drops

Question 5

Advice for blepharitis

Answer 5

• Soak a clean flannel or cotton wool in warm water and place it on your closed eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes.
  Gently massage your eyelids for around 30 seconds.
  Clean your eyelids using cotton wool or a cotton bud
• Use anti-dandruff shampoo

Question 6

Management options for dry eyes

Answer 6

• NHS website advice for dry eye self care
• Warm compresses, lid hygeine + massage, change lens solution or wear less
• Increase humidity, get a humidifier
• Soothing/hydrating eye drops– optrex (high viscous is advised to use at night)
• If symptoms do not respond to primary care within 4-12 weeks, arrange specialist referral

Question 6

Treatment for a stye

Answer 6

• Simple analgesics (especially ibuprofen due to anti-inflammatory effect)
• Warm compress