Conjunctivitis Consultation - Rangiora & Woodend

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Our accredited pharmacists can provide treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis.

Some of the common symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis

• Eyes are red, swollen and inflamed
• Eyes will often have a white to yellow sticky fluid and discharge
• Vision is not typically affected, however discharge may cause blurring when present
• Eyes feel gritty, irritated and sore
• It often begins in one eye but can quickly spread to affect both eyes

Common reasons a pharmacist may not be able to supply treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis *

• Patient is under the age of 6 months
• Patients' eye is very painful
• Patient has had recent eye surgery
• Patient suffers from glaucoma

If a pharmacist deems that treatment is necessary, they can provide you with the most appropriate treatment, without you having to see a doctor.

* This is not a complete list of criteria in which a pharmacist will need to refer a patient to their doctor.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by allergies and can be seasonal, occurring at certain times of the year (if due to pollen or grasses), or continuous or ongoing (if caused by allergens such as dust mite or pets).

Both your eyes will generally be 'watery’ and itchy. Your eyelids may be swollen and puffy. It tends to be more common if you have other allergies such as hay fever, asthma or eczema. You may also be sneezing more often and have a blocked nose.

Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.