What is chemosis of the conjunctiva?

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What is the chemosis of the conjunctiva?

Chemosis of the conjunctiva is defined as a type of inflammation of the white part of the eyeball. The condition is more often referred to as “chemosis.” This translucent lining, called the conjunctiva, also covers the surface of the eye. when the eye becomes irritated it causes oedema of the conjunctiva.

This condition is most often related to allergies. Sometimes a viral or bacterial infection may cause it. It is not contagious. It is not communicable from person to person.

Chemosis of Conjunctiva

Causes of chemosis

The primary cause of this condition is an irritation. Allergies play a role in eye irritation and chemosis. Seasonal allergies or allergic reactions to pets are the main causes. Animal dander and pollen can make your eyes water, look red, and white discharge. This condition is called Allergic conjunctivitis. You can develop both conjunctivitis and conjunctival chemosis because of allergies.

It is also associated with angioedema. This is a form of allergic reaction in which your skin swells. Unlike hives – a swelling on the surface of your skin – angioedema swelling occurs underneath your skin.

Eye infections, like viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, can lead to chemosis of eye. You can also have chemosis after eye surgery, or as a result of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland overproduces hormones. According to Columbia University’s Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, some people with overactive thyroids experience eye-related symptoms like chemosis.

Rubbing your eyes too much or too often can also cause chemosis.

 

Symptoms

Chemosis occurs when the membrane lining your eyes and eyelids accumulates fluid. Symptoms may include:

  • Watery eyes
  • Excessive tearing
  • Itchiness
  • Blurry or double vision

Because of the swelling, you may not be able to close your eyes completely. Some people do not have any symptoms of chemosis other than inflammation.

 

Go to see a doctor and have your allergy checked. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include changes in breathing or heart rate, wheezing, and swelling of the lips or tongue.

How is chemosis diagnosed?

Your eye doctor can most often diagnose chemosis by doing a physical examination of the affected eye(s). Your eye doctor may ask questions about the length and severity of your symptoms. Give detailed information about your symptoms and allergies. This will help your doctor find the best treatment. Usually, it more affects the bulbar conjunctiva.

Chemosis icd 10

The ICD 10 code of chemosis falls under the category of Diseases of the eye and adnexa
(H00-H59) and subcategory Disorders of the conjunctiva (H10-H13). H11.4 is the ICD 10 code for chemosis. 

 

Conjunctival Chemosis differential diagnosis

Differential diagnosis of conjunctival chemosis is preseptal or orbital cellulitis, thyroid eye diseases, Sarcoidosis, Rheumatoid eye disease, idiopathic orbital inflammatory syndrome, metastatic disease (particularly with the patient’s history of breast cancer), and some of tumors.

 

Treatment

The key to treating is to reduce inflammation. Managing the swelling can reduce discomfort and negative impact on your vision. Placing cool compresses over your eyes may ease discomfort and inflammation. Your doctor may also tell you to stop wearing contact lenses during chemosis treatment.

Further treatment may depend on the causes.

Allergies

If it is caused by allergies, your doctor may recommend antihistamines. These medications reduce your body’s reaction to allergens. An allergen is a substance that your body sees as harmful. When your body encounters an allergen, like dust or pet dander, it produces histamines to fight off the perceived intruder. Antihistamines can help suppress this immune response and reduce symptoms like irritation and swelling. Try to stay away from known allergens like pollen, pet dander, and smoke.

 

Bacterial infection

Your doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops to lubricate your eyes. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need over-the-counter eye drops.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic ointments or eye drops. If you show symptoms of a bacterial infection, take the full course of medication. This will prevent the infection from recurring.

 

Viral infection

Viral conjunctivitis is another potential cause of chemosis. However, antibiotics don’t treat viral infections. Cold compresses and lubricating eye drops are often the best treatments for this type of infection.

Cold Compression

Can chemosis be prevented?

In some cases, such as after eye surgery, chemosis may not be preventable. However, if it is caused by allergies, taking steps to avoid them and managing symptoms can reduce the risk of recurring. Practice good hand washing to prevent the spread of bacteria. Also, avoid excessively touching or rubbing your eyes, especially with dirty hands.

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