Irritation conjunctivitis1

Acid, alkali, smoke, wind, and almost any irritant substance that goes into the conjunctivalis
saccus can cause conjunctivitis. Some common irritants, namely fertilizer, soap, deodorant, hair
spray, tobacco, make-up materials (mascara, etc.), and various acids and alkali. In certain areas,
smog (a mixture of smoke and fog) is a major cause of mild chemical conjunctivitis. Specific irritants
in the smog have not been positively determined, and the treatments are non-specific. No eye effect
is permanent but the affected eye is often red and distracting constantly.

In acid-induced wounds, acids change the nature of the protein of the tissue and the effect is
immediately apparent. Alkaline does not alter the nature of proteins and tends to rapidly infiltrate
the tissues, and settle in conjunctival tissues. Here alkali continues to damage for hours or days,
depending on the molar concentration and the amount entering. The attachment between the
bulbari and palpebral conjunctiva (the symbopharynx) and the corneal scarring is more likely to
occur in alkalizing agents. In the many cases the main symptoms of chemical wounds are pain,
dilation of blood vessels (injections), photophobia, and blepharospasm. Event trigger history can
usually be revealed.

The conjunctivalis saccus should be rinsed immediately and thoroughly with water or salt
solution, and any solid material must be mechanically removed. Do not take chemical antidotes.
Follow-up action, is with intensive topical steroids, ascorbic and arthritic eye drops, cycloplegic,
antiglaukoma therapy as necessary, cold compresses and systemic analgesics. Bacterial conjunctivitis
can be treated with the appropriate antibacterial agent. Corneal scarring may require corneal
transplantation, and symbionfarone may require plastic surgery in the conjunctiva. Severe burns in
the conjunctiva and cornea have a poor prognosis despite surgery, but with adequate treatment
initiated soon, the scar formed will be minimal and the prognosis is better.

1. Riordan-eva P, Whitcher JP. Vaughan & Asbury OFTALMOLOGI UMUM. 17th ed. (dr. Diana
Susanto, ed.). Penerbit buku kedokterean EGC; 2013.