What is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)?
Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva (the clear covering of the sclera, the white part of the eye). The eye appears pink because scleral blood vessels are dilated. Pink eye is often accompanied by a discharge and mild discomfort, but vision is usually normal. Conjunctivitis is caused by bacterial or viral infections, as well as to allergies.
Conjunctivitis is very contagious. Infected people should not share towels or pillowcases and wash their hands frequently. They should stay home from school or work and out of swimming pools.
Treatment of Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with a variety of antibiotic eye drops or ointments, which usually cure the infection in a day or two. Viral conjunctivitis cannot be treated with antibiotics.
Conjunctivitis due to allergies is characterized by seasonal itchy eyes that can be treated with eye drops. Do not use medications that contain steroids (they usually end in "-one" or "-dex") unless prescribed by an ophthalmologist.
