Most people take their vision for granted — until something goes wrong. Eye problems range from the common and easily treated (conjunctivitis, dry eyes) to conditions requiring urgent medical attention. Knowing the difference is important.
Structure of the Eye
The cornea (the clear front layer) and lens focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptors (rods for peripheral and low-light vision; cones for colour and detail) that convert light into electrical signals transmitted via the optic nerve to the brain. The conjunctiva is the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye (sclera) and lining the inside of the eyelids — the tissue affected in conjunctivitis. The macula is the central area of the retina responsible for fine detail; age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects this area.
Conjunctivitis: Types and Treatment
Bacterial conjunctivitis — purulent (pus-like) yellow or green discharge, crusting, both eyes often affected. In adults, usually self-limiting within 7–10 days. Chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops (available OTC from pharmacies for those over 2 years) accelerate recovery and are appropriate first-line treatment. Apply every 2 hours during waking hours for the first 2 days, then every 4 hours. Fusidic acid drops (Fucithalmic) require prescription. Always complete the course.
Viral conjunctivitis — watery discharge, often starts in one eye and spreads to the other, often associated with a cold or upper respiratory infection. Extremely contagious. No antibiotic is effective. Treatment is supportive: cold compresses, lubricating eye drops for comfort, regular handwashing. Resolves in 7–14 days.
Allergic conjunctivitis — itchy, watery, bilateral, associated with hayfever or other allergic disease. Sodium cromoglicate 2% eye drops (Opticrom) — mast cell stabiliser; use throughout the pollen season for prevention. Antihistamine eye drops for quicker relief. Oral antihistamines also significantly reduce ocular symptoms of hayfever.
Contact Lens Care
Contact lens-related infections (particularly Acanthamoeba keratitis and bacterial keratitis) can be sight-threatening. Key rules: never use tap water with contact lenses or their cases — Acanthamoeba lives in tap water and causes a devastating corneal infection. Replace lens cases monthly. Use multipurpose solution or hydrogen peroxide systems as directed — hydrogen peroxide systems require the full neutralisation time (6 hours) before inserting. Never sleep in lenses unless specifically approved for overnight wear. Replace lenses on schedule — don’t extend daily wear lenses to multiple days.
When to Seek Urgent Attention
Go to A&E or an eye casualty unit immediately for: sudden significant loss of vision, eye pain (especially in a contact lens wearer), chemical splash in the eye, penetrating injury, or sudden new floaters with flashing lights (possible retinal detachment). These are not pharmacy problems — they require urgent specialist assessment.
Browse Eye Care, Conjunctivitis treatments and Dry Eye drops at Huncoat Pharmacy. Related: Vitamins for Eye Health.
At Huncoat Pharmacy: Pharmacy First eye infection treatment, Browse eye care products.