What should you know about mycoplasma conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis affects the thin surface covering the eye and eyelids. Mycoplasma is one possible infectious cause; viruses, bacteria, allergy and irritation can produce similar signs. Redness, watering, sticky discharge, gritty discomfort and swollen eyelids may occur. Light sensitivity or reduced vision is less typical and deserves careful assessment.

A clinician may examine the eye, ask about contacts and recent illness, and take a sample when the cause or treatment choice is uncertain. Avoid sharing towels, pillows or eye cosmetics while discharge is present, because infectious conjunctivitis can spread through contaminated hands and objects.

Book a GP consultation for persistent discharge, worsening redness, symptoms in both eyes, or symptoms after sexual exposure or close contact with someone who is unwell. Wash hands before and after touching the eye, gently clean crusting with clean water, and stop wearing contact lenses until a clinician says it is safe.

Use only drops or tablets recommended for your situation. Antibiotic treatment is not useful for every cause, and sharing someone else's drops can delay the right care. Do not touch the bottle tip to the eye or skin.

Seek same-day eye assessment for significant eye pain, marked light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, swelling around the eye, injury, or difficulty opening the eye. Urgent care is also needed if a contact-lens wearer develops pain or vision change, because deeper infection can threaten sight.

Ask whether the pattern fits infectious conjunctivitis, whether a swab or other test is useful, how long to avoid contact lenses, and which warning signs mean you should return urgently. Ask how to reduce spread to household members.