clinical features

Last reviewed 10/2022

• there is usually a mucopurulent discharge and the lashes are stuck together on waking
  • sticky mucopurulent discharge accumulated in the lower lid fornix and inner and outer canthus, tearing, and sometimes with a sensation of foreign body in the eye
• the conjunctiva is hyperaemic and infrequently, there is lid oedema.
• the cornea should be bright (1) - if there is corneal clouding then this suggests an alternative diagnosis and more serious condition such as glaucoma
• there is a gritty discomfort rather than pain. Any blurring of vision is due to mucopus - mucous blended with pus - in the tear film which clears with blinking
• typically, the infection begins in one eye and is spread to the other by the hands

Reference:

1. Prescribers' Journal 2000; 40 (2):130-137.