What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pinkeye," is an irritation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the moist, delicate membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the whites of the eyes. You can have conjunctivitis in one or both eyes. It is easily treated, but without treatment, vision can be damaged.

What causes conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or it can be the result of an allergic reaction or chemical irritation of the eye.

The most common bacterial cause of conjunctivitis is Haemophilus influenzae. Bacteria can pass from person to person through contact with infected body fluids and can also spread on a the hands if you rub or wipe infected eyes.

Viral conjunctivitis usually spreads through contact with contaminated tears or nasal fluids. Viral conjunctivitis can also be part of a broader group of symptoms when a child has one of the viral childhood infections, such as measles.

Conjunctivitis can also be an allergic reaction due to something in the air, such as pollen or dust; something put into the eye, such as contact lens solutions; or something that a child has touched and then accidentally transferred to the eye.

Many types of chemicals can irritate the conjunctiva. Spray perfumes, deodorants, household cleaners, smog and industrial pollutants are some of the causes of chemical conjunctivitis.

How do I know if I have conjunctivitis?
All types of conjunctivitis cause redness of the eye (a "bloodshot" appearance), usually with itchiness or irritation.

In allergic conjunctivitis, the conjunctiva usually is swollen and red. The eyes are also very watery, and itching is usually severe. In chemical conjunctivitis, depending on the chemical irritant, there can be severe eye irritation and pain.

In bacterial conjunctivitis, in addition to redness and itching of the eyes, there is usually a thick, sticky, yellowish discharge. The discharge may accumulate into crusts on the eyelids and may make the eyelids stick together after sleep. In viral conjunctivitis, the eye discharge is usually clear and watery.

How is it treated?
Doctors can often determine the type of conjunctivitis by taking a careful history of when and how the eye symptoms began and by examining the eyes to look for specific signs, such as swelling or discharge. Remember to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.

For allergic conjunctivitis, your doctor may treat the irritated eyes with decongestants or with eyedrops containing antihistamines. Cold compresses may also help relieve irritation. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotics, usually given either as eyedrops or as an ointment. Viral conjunctivitis cannot be treated with antibiotics effectively, but it usually clears on its own after a few days. Since both bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are contagious, avoid doing anything that can spread the germs.

How can conjunctivitis be prevented?
If you have seasonal allergies, ask your doctor about ways to manage those symptoms to avoid conjunctivitis. To help prevent bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, wash your hands frequently. To prevent conjunctivitis from spreading among family members, make sure that the infected person never shares washcloths, towels or pillowcases with anyone else. Wash these items well in hot water and detergent.

Consult an Eye Care Associates Doctor
If you or a family member suspects conjunctivitis, make an appointment with an experienced eye doctor at Eye Care Associates of Greater Cincinnati.