Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

What is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)?

Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin, clear membrane over the white part of the eye and lining the eyelids) is conjunctivitis. It is more commonly referred to as pink eye. Obviously, the major symptom of conjunctivitis is a pink eye. This pinkish or reddish color is due to inflammation. Other symptoms may include itching and /or hurting.

Are there Different Types of Conjunctivitis?

There are four different kinds of conjunctivitis.
1. Viral conjunctivitis usually only affects one eye, but it may spread to the other. It causes excessive watering and a light discharge. It will usually resolve within three weeks. Symptoms of this type of conjunctivitis may be relieved with cool compresses, artificial tears and topical steroid drops.
2. Bacterial conjunctivitis affects both eyes and involves a heavy discharge, which may cause eye lids to stick together, especially after sleeping. The symptoms of this form of pink eye include: redness, tearing and a gritty feeling in the eyes. The most common treatments for bacterial conjunctivitis are antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
3. Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes and causes itching, redness, swollen eyelids and excessive tearing. This form of pink eye is often treated with cool compresses, artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medicine or antihistamines.
4. Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) usually occurs in both eyes and is characterized by contact lens intolerance, itching, tearing, a heavy discharge and red eyelids. This form of conjunctivitis is generally treated with eye drops to reduce inflammation and itching.
With the exception of the allergic type, conjunctivitis is usually contagious. Pink eye is generally a minor eye infection, but it can develop into a more serious condition, if left untreated.

What Causes Pink Eye and How can it be Avoided?

Conjunctivitis might be triggered by a virus, bacteria, an allergic reaction or a foreign body on the eye. The best line of defense against pink eye is avoidance. Some tips to avoid spreading conjunctivitis include: frequent hand washing; disinfecting surfaces; not sharing washcloths, towels or pillowcases; not sharing eye drops or cosmetics; discontinuing contact lens wear; avoiding touching your face; not re-using handkerchiefs; avoiding shaking hands and not swimming.