FOLLICULAR CONJUNCTIVITIS: CAUSES & SIGNS/SYMPTOMS

Did you know that Follicular conjunctivitis derives its name from the particular area of the conjunctiva it affects? Follicles are clusters of immune system cells located inside the eyelids and in the conjunctiva. When these cells (usually irritated by an infection) become swollen, it results in inflammation that leads to visible and palpable rash-like elevations in the eyes.

Did you also know there are types of follicular conjunctivitis?

TYPES OF FOLLICULAR CONJUNCTIVITIS

The two forms of follicular conjunctivitis are:

1. Acute follicular conjunctivitis: Approximately 80% of cases are acute. This type occurs due to a singular, isolated infection that typically is self-limiting (improves on its own), even without treatment.
2. Chronic follicular conjunctivitis: occurs when an infection persists longer than usual. Chronic cases require treatment and may last for several weeks.

Follicular conjunctivitis may arise from infections, bacteria, and other pathogens or when you have an allergic reaction to a medication (typically eye drops). Therefore, one may ask, are there other causes of follicular conjunctivitis?

CAUSES OF FOLLICULAR CONJUNCTIVITIS

Follicular conjunctivitis can arise from various factors, such as:

1. Viral infections: Follicular conjunctivitis is caused primarily by a viral infection. A virus can infect the eye directly or spread to the eyes from other body parts. Numerous viruses can lead to this condition, with some of the most frequent being Adenovirus, Molluscum contagiosum, Herpes simplex, Shingles (herpes zoster), COVID-19, and Picornaviruses. Follicular conjunctivitis resulting from a viral infection is self-limiting, resolving within three weeks or less without intervention.
2. Contact lens usage: can result in follicular conjunctivitis either due to poor hygiene or irritation from the lenses.
3. Bacterial infections: Though less common, bacterial infections Such as chlamydia and gonorrhea transmitted between individuals can also spread to the eyes and result in follicular conjunctivitis.
4. Irritants like chemicals, smoke, and wind.
5. Allergic reactions: Although frequently seen in cases resulting from infections, allergies can lead to follicular conjunctivitis. These occur when the body responds to proteins found in dust, pollen, pet dander, or mold. If an allergen enters your eyes and your immune system excessively reacts, you may experience follicular conjunctivitis.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF FOLLICULAR CONJUNCTIVITIS?

The symptoms of follicular conjunctivitis can differ based on the underlying cause, but common signs include:

• Follicle development: The presence of small rounded bumps on the conjunctiva.
•  Itching and burning: A feeling of itchiness or burning in the eyes.
• Discharge: A yellowish or greenish discharge may occur, especially in the morning.
• Blurred vision: In severe cases, follicular conjunctivitis might result in blurred vision.
• Redness and swelling of the conjunctiva and nearby tissues.

Common symptoms of follicular conjunctivitis include:

• Red eyes.
• Epiphora (Watery discharge or excessive tearing).
• Photophobia (Sensitivity to light).
• Burning sensations in the eyes.
• Blepharitis (Swollen eyelids).
• The sensation of something being lodged under your eyelid or in your eye (foreign body sensation).
• Eye discomfort or irritation.

In our next post, we will discuss treatment options for follicular conjunctivitis. Prioritize your eyes with us at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

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