Conjunctivitis

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane lining the white part of the eye and inner part of the eyelids). It can occur at any age but is especially common among children. Fortunately, many cases are mild and only need simple treatments such as prescription eye drops.

No matter the cause of the conjunctivitis, general symptoms include:

white of the eye turning pink
irritation, itching, or burning feeling of the eye
sensitivity to light
swelling of the eyelid
sticky, stringy, or watery discharge

CAUSES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS

Bacterial and viral causes are contagious, whereas cases due to allergies or chemical exposure are not.

bacterial – from rubbing eyes with unclean hands, towels, make-up, lotions, and so on
viral – often associated with colds or upper respiratory infections.
allergies – direct contact with allergens, whether seasonal (grass, pollen, ragweed, etc.) or environmental (dust, mites, pets, etc.)
chemical – exposure to polluted air, chlorine in swimming pools, or other environmental irritants

Some signs of conjunctivitis overlap with other eye conditions, so it’s important to have the eyes examined in order to determine the appropriate treatment.

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