CONJUNCTIVITIS
DEFINITION OF CONJUNCTIVITIS
Conjunctivitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eyeball (sclera). This layer plays an important role in protecting the eye and maintaining moisture on the surface of the eye.
When the conjunctiva becomes irritated or infected, it causes blood vessels within it to dilate, resulting in the characteristic red or “pink” appearance of the eye—hence the common term “pink eye.”
RISK FACTORS OF CONJUCTIVITIS
- Close Contact with Infected Individuals
- Poor Hand Hygiene
- Sharing Personal Items
- Upper Respiratory Infections or Colds
- Use of Contaminated Eye Products
SYMPTOMS
Inflammation causes dilation of tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva, giving the eye a red or pink appearance.
Irritation triggers the lacrimal glands to produce more tears to flush out perceived irritants or pathogens.
Infections stimulate the immune system to produce white blood cells and mucus, resulting in discharge.
Swelling and inflammation of the conjunctiva cause a sensation like there's sand or dust in the eye.
Allergens trigger histamine release, which causes intense itching.
TREATMENT TYPES
Cold compresses – to relieve irritation and swelling
Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) – reduce dryness and discomfort
Antiviral drops – only if caused by herpes virus (e.g., HSV), which requires immediate medical care
Good hygiene – to avoid spreading to others
Avoid touching/rubbing eyes
Disinfect surfaces
Wash hands often
Topical antibiotic eye drops or ointments:
Examples: Erythromycin, Tobramycin, Ofloxacin, Polymyxin B/Trimethoprim
Warm compresses – help loosen crusts and soothe the eyes
Cleaning the eyelids – with a warm, damp cloth to remove discharge
Cold compresses – to reduce itching and swelling
Artificial tears – flush out allergens and soothe eyes
Antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops:
Examples: Olopatadine (Patanol), Ketotifen, Azelastine
Oral antihistamines – for systemic allergy relief
Avoiding allergens – keep windows closed, use air purifiers, avoid pets during flare-ups
Immediate eye flushing – with sterile saline or clean water to remove the irritant
Artificial tears – to soothe inflammation
Avoiding the irritant – adjust work environment or protective eyewear use
Avoid contact lenses
FAQS
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva—the clear membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. It causes the eye to appear red or pink, which is why it’s often called “pink eye.”
Conjunctivitis can be caused by:
Viruses (most common, especially adenovirus)
Bacteria
Allergies (like pollen or dust)
Irritants (smoke, chlorine, chemicals)
Each type has slightly different symptoms and treatments.
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis: ✅ Yes, very contagious.
Allergic and irritant conjunctivitis: ❌ No, not contagious.
Contagious forms spread through direct contact, contaminated objects, or respiratory droplets.
Viral: Watery discharge, starts in one eye, often with cold symptoms
Bacterial: Thick yellow/green discharge, crusting of lashes
Allergic: Intense itching, both eyes, usually with sneezing or nasal allergies
Irritant: Immediate redness and watering after exposure to a chemical or foreign body
A doctor can usually tell based on symptoms and appearance—lab tests are rarely needed.
- Viral: Usually clears on its own; use artificial tears and cold compresses
Bacterial: May need antibiotic eye drops or ointment
Allergic: Use antihistamine drops, avoid allergens
Irritant: Rinse the eye thoroughly; avoid the irritant
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