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Conjunctivitis

The conjunctiva covers the white (sclera) portion of the eye. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the outer coat of the eye. In conjunctivitis the eye is red as a result of dilated blood vessels and swelling of this layer. The term “pink eye” is sometimes used to describe this condition.

Conjunctivitis may affect one or both eyes. While the affected eye may feel irritated, it generally is not painful. Often conjunctivitis is accompanied by a discharge. This may be watery, stringy or pus like, depending on the cause of the infection.

The etiology of conjunctivitis may be bacterial, viral or allergic. Each of these types has slightly different presentations, which give clues to the etiology. Generally this condition is annoying but usually not sight threatening.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with an antibiotic drop or ointment. However, antibiotics do not help a viral infection and treatment is directed toward relief of symptoms. The allergic type is treated with drops and oral antihistamines but these provide only symptomatic relief and are not “curative” as such. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are contagious but transmission is by contact and not through the air. Most conjunctival infections will resolve in 1-2 weeks with treatment but occasionally can become chronic.