Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the clear membrane that lines the eye.

Conjunctivitis is caused most commonly by infection from viruses or bacteria, or by an allergic reaction, though other causes exist, such as overexposure to sun, wind, smog, chlorine, or contact lens solution. Pinkeye is the common name for conjunctivitis. Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid; most commonly, it is caused by a bacterial infection.

Checklist for Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis

Rating

Nutritional Supplements

Herbs

See also: Homeopathic Remedies for Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars

Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star

For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis and blepharitis may cause mild discomfort with tearing, itching, burning, light sensitivity, and thickening of the eyelids. They may also produce a crust or discharge, occasionally causing the eyelids to stick together during sleep. The eyes and eyelids may become red, but usually there is no blurring or change in vision.

Medical treatments

Over the counter irrigating solutions containing boric acid (Eye Wash®, Collyrium for Fresh Eyes Wash®) might temporarily relieve irritation. Continued redness, irritation, or pain requires medical treatment.

Prescription eye (ophthalmic) medications, available in ointment or drop form, often contain antibiotics such as erythromycin (Ilotycin®), gentamicin (Garamycin®), or sulfacetamide (Sodium Sulamyd®, Bleph-10®) to treat bacterial infection. Ophthalmic corticosteroids, in combination with antibiotics, include hydrocortisone (Cortisporin Ophthalmic Suspension®), dexamethasone (TobraDex®), and prednisolone (Poly-Pred Suspension®) are often prescribed to treat inflammation and infection.

Individuals with diagnosed conjunctivitis should avoid irritants, such as contact lenses or allergy-causing agents.

Nutritional supplements that may be helpful

Vitamin A deficiency has been reported in people with chronic conjunctivitis.¹ It is unknown whether vitamin A supplementation can prevent conjunctivitis or help people who already have the condition.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.

Herbs that may be helpful

Several herbs have been traditionally used to treat eye inflammation. Examples include calendula, eyebright, chamomile, and comfrey. None of these herbs has been studied for use in conjunctivitis or blepharitis. As any preparation placed on the eye must be kept sterile, topical use of these herbs in the eyes should only be done under the supervision of an experienced healthcare professional.

Goldenseal and Oregon grape contain the antibacterial constituent known as berberine. While topical use of berberine in eye drops has been clinically studied for eye infections,² the use of the whole herbs has not been studied for conjunctivitis or blepharitis.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual herb for information about any side effects or interactions.

References

1. Rankov BG. Vitamin A and carotene concentration in serum in persons with chronic conjunctivitis and pterygium. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 1976;46:454–7 [in German].

2. Babbar OP, Chatwal VK, Ray IB, et al. Effect of berberine chloride eye drops on clinically positive trachoma patients. Ind J Med Res 1982;76:83–8.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.