What is Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis or pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva which is the outer-most layer of the eye covering the sclera.

Cause of Conjunctivitis

1. Allergic conjunctivitis  - by intolerance to substances such as cosmetics, perfume, or drugs, or chemical exposure.
2. Bacterial conjunctivitis - by bacteria such as staphylococcus and streptococcus; mild antibiotic eyedrop is suggested for prevention.
3. Viral conjunctivitis - Viruses are the most common cause, especially in children; prevented by daily practices such as HandWashing.
4. Other causes - Chlamydia, fungus, parasitic agents and certain systemic diseases.
5. Bacteria in the birth canal - affecting Newborns, called ophthalmia neonatorum.
6. Extended-wear contact lenses

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis

1. Watery discharge
2. Irritation
3. Red eye
4. Initially affecting one and then spreading to both

Allergic conjunctivitis

1. Usually affecting both eyes
2. Itching
3. Tearing
4. Swollen eyelids

Bacterial conjunctivitis

1. Stringy discharge causing lids to stick together, often after
   sleeping
2. Inflammation of the conjunctiva
3. Redness
4. Tearing
5. Irritation and/or gritty feeling
6. Initially affects only one eye, but may spread easily to both.

Types of Conjunctivitis

1. Allergic conjunctivitis - both eyes are affected at the same time
2. Infective conjunctivitis - infection starts in one eye, gradually spreading to both
   1. Viral - associated with an upper respiratory tract infection, cold, or sore throat.
   2. Bacterial - condition depending on the type of bacteria involved

Diagnosis of Conjunctivitis

1. Routine eye exam using a slit lamp microscope.
2. Cultures to determine the type of causal bacteria.

Treatment of Conjunctivitis

Treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause.

1. Avoidance of wearing contact lenses.
2. Antihistamine drugs and sodium cromoglicate drops - to reduce inflammation, sneezing and rashes occurring due to allergy.
3. Antibiotic medication including drops or ointment in cases of infective (mainly bacterial) conjunctivitis
4. Applying warm compresses (a clean cloth soaked in warm water) to closed eyes
5. Steroid eye drops and cool compresses to prevent allergy