Conjunctivitis
(Pink Eye)
Definition
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the tissue that covers the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. It is called the conjunctiva.
Eye with ConjunctivitisCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
Causes TOP
There are many causes, such as:
- Virus
- Bacteria
- Allergens, such as seasonal allergies
- Chemicals from things like air pollutants and chlorine
Risk Factors TOP
The bacterial form is more common in children.
Things that may raise the risk are:
- Spending time in crowded or close spaces
- Contact with an infected person
- Sharing towels, linens, or other items with an infected person
- Having seasonal allergies or contact with known allergens
- Being around chemical irritants
- Wearing contact lenses
Symptoms TOP
Symptoms are:
- Teary eyes
- Pink color in the white part of the eye
- Swelling of the eyelid
- Itching or burning eyes
- Pus-like discharge
- Sensitivity to light
Diagnosis TOP
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. An eye exam will be done. Eye discharge may be checked for signs of infection.
Treatment TOP
Treatment will depend on the cause.
Medicine
Most forms of conjunctivitis clear up with time. Some people may be given antibiotic eye drops or ointment to treat the bacterial form. Antibiotics cannot treat the viral form.
Artificial tears may be used. Some may have antihistamines in them to further ease symptoms. These are found at many stores.
Home Care
These methods may help ease problems:
- Cold or warm compresses
- Avoiding any causes of irritation
- Not wearing contact lenses until problems are gone
Prevention TOP
To lower the chance of this problem:
- Use good hand hygiene.
- Do not share personal items with others.
- Do not share makeup or eye drops with others.
- Avoid allergens.
RESOURCES:
American Optometric Association
http://www.aoa.org
Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.familydoctor.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Ophthalmological Society
http://www.cos-sco.ca
College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca
REFERENCES:
Allergic conjunctivitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/allergic-conjunctivitis. Updated November 16, 2018. Accessed November 21, 2019.
Azari AA, Barney NP. Conjunctivitis: a systematic review of diagnosis and treatment. JAMA. 2013 Oct 23;310(16):1721-1729.
Infectious conjunctivitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/infectious-conjunctivitis. Updated February 7, 2019. Accessed November 21, 2019.
Pinkeye (conjunctivitis). Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated November 21, 2015. Accessed November 21, 2019.
Last reviewed September 2019 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated: 8/18/2020