Conjunctivitis in dogs, sometimes called red eye or pink eye, is definitely an inflammation of the conjunctival membrane that covers the rear of the eyelids and also the surface of the eyeball, as much as the cornea. It's one of the most typical eye problems in dogs. The classic signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis really are a red eye having a discharge.
Conjunctivitis isn't usually painful. When the eye is red and also the dog is squinting and shutting the eye, think about the chance of keratitis, uveitis, or glaucoma. Any delay in treating these conditions can result in blindness.
Once the discharge involves both eyes, suspect an allergic reaction or perhaps a systemic disease for example canine distemper. When it calls for only one eye, think about a local predisposing cause like a foreign body in the eye or hair rubbing on the eye.
The eye discharge in conjunctivitis might be clear (serous), mucuslike (mucoid), or puslike (purulent). A stringy, mucoid discharge suggests your dog might have inadequate tear volume, an issue related to keratoconjunctivitis sicca. In fact, this is actually the most typical reason for conjunctivitis in dogs.
Serous conjunctivitis is really a mild condition in that the membranes look pink and somewhat swollen. The release is apparent and watery. Serous conjunctivitis is brought on by physical irritants for example wind, cold, dust, as well as other allergens for example those that cause allergic blepharitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is usually associated with itching, and also the dog will rub his face. Some viral agents may cause a definite discharge as well.
Follicular (mucoid) conjunctivitis is really a condition in that the small mucous glands (follicles) on the underside of the nictitating membrane respond to an eye irritant or infection by forming a tough, cobblestone surface that irritates the eye and creates a mucoid discharge. Following the inciting factor continues to be treated, the follicles may persist and also the rough surface provides a chronic irritant.
Purulent conjunctivitis is serous conjunctivitis that becomes infected. The typical culprits would be the bacteria Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. The conjunctiva is red and swollen. The eye discharge contains mucus and pus. Thick secretions may crust the eyelids.
Treatment: Any underlying reason for conjunctivitis should be corrected. Dogs with recurrent or persistent conjunctivitis should be tested for keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
Serous conjunctivitis may be treatable in your own home. Flush the eye 3 or 4 times each day by having an over-the-counter sterile saline eyewash or artificial tears. Notify your veterinarian when the eye seems to be getting worse.
Mild cases of follicular conjunctivitis react to antibiotic and corticosteroid eye ointments prescribed by your veterinarian. In resistant cases, the follicles may need to become destroyed by chemical cauterization.
Purulent conjunctivitis requires veterinary examination and treatment. You should remove mucus and pus in the eyes, as well as pus and crusts that follow the eyelids. Moisten a cotton pad with sterile eyewash and gently cleanse the eye. Warm, moist packs may help loosen crusts. Repeat as necessary and apply topical antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian. Continue topical antibiotics for a few days beyond apparent cure.
Note that corticosteroids and eye medications containing corticosteroids shouldn't be used in dogs with purulent conjunctivitis simply because they impair the neighborhood inflammatory response that fights infection. Bacterial culture and sensitivity tests are indicated when the conjunctivitis doesn't improve.
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Note: This article was sent to us by: Norma Richards at 05132011
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