Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a membrane that covers the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelid.

Causes

Causes include:
  • Viral upper respiratory infection (e.g. colds)
  • Bacterial infection, such as staphylococcus or streptococcus
  • Allergic reaction, usually related to seasonal allergies
  • Chemical irritation caused by:
    • Air pollutants
    • Soap
    • Smoke
    • Chlorine
    • Makeup
Both viral and bacterial Conjunctivitis are highly contagious

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Contact with a person who has conjunctivitis
  • Sharing towels, linens, or other objects (even doorknobs) with an infected person
  • Exposure to chemical or environmental irritants
  • Contact lenses, particularly extended-wear
  • Age: more common in children
  • Seasonal allergies or contact with known allergens

Symptoms

Symptoms include:
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Inflamed inner eyelids
  • Scratchy feeling in the eyes
  • Pus-like or watery discharge
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Swelling of the eyelid
Depending on its cause, Conjunctivitis will usually clear up within 2-14 days. If conjunctivitis is caused by a seasonal allergy, it may continue to recur throughout the season.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your eye. If there is discharge from your eye, it may be tested to determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial. This is often not a reliable method, however.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the type of infection.

Bacterial Infection

Antibiotic eyedrops or ointment will be prescribed. This will help shorten the course of the infection and the time it is contagious. Wipe away any discharge that accumulates before applying the medication.

Viral Infection

There is no medicine to cure a viral infection. However, many doctors will prescribe topical antibiotics if they cannot rule out the possibility of a bacterial infection. Applying warm compresses or artificial tears (found in pharmacies) may help relieve symptoms.

Allergic or Chemical Irritation

Avoid the cause of the irritation (smoke, pollen, etc.). Apply cool compresses to the affected area. Eye drops containing antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medications may help relieve severe allergic conjunctivitis.

To prevent further spread of infection:
  • Keep hands away from your face, and do not rub your eyes.
  • Change pillowcases every night.
  • Wash hands frequently.
  • Avoid shaking hands with others.
  • Avoid swimming.
Carefully clean away any discharge with warm water and cotton or gauze, and immediately discard.

Prevention

Strategies to avoid Conjunctivitis include:
  • Avoid exposure to chemical irritants.
  • Do not share makeup or eye drops with anyone else.
  • Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and handkerchiefs.
  • Wash hands frequently, and keep hands away from eyes.
  • Avoid prolonged swimming in stagnant ponds or lakes.
  • Clean contact lenses frequently