The white part of your eye and the inner surfaces of your eyelids are covered by a transparent membrane (thin layer of cells) known as the conjunctiva. If the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, you have a condition called conjunctivitis.

Causes of Conjunctivitis

Pinkeye can be caused by many of the bacteria and viruses responsible for colds and other infections, — including ear infections, sinus infections, and sore throats — and by the same types of bacteria that cause the sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are common among children and are very contagious. Someone with conjunctivitis may be contagious for seven to 14 days after signs and symptoms first appear.

Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and usually occurs in the spring and summer. It is usually triggered by exposure to plant pollen and grasses. People who are allergic to animals or dust mites may be affected year-round.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Uncomfortable, thick yellow or green discharge (often a bacterial infection)

Thin, clear drainage from the eye (often a viral infection or an allergic reaction)

Mostly both eyes are affected, but often one starts before the other.

The eye is red, with the blood vessels over the white of the eye more visible and swollen. The lining of the eyelids also looks redder or pinker than usual.

Treatment of Conjunctivitis

Infectious forms of pink eye are highly contagious and are spread by direct contact with infected people. If you or your child has infectious pink eye, avoid touching the eye area and wash your hands frequently, particularly after applying medications to the eye area. Never share towels or handkerchiefs, and throw away tissues after each use.

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis doesn’t respond to treatment with antibiotic eyedrops or ointment. Like with a common cold, you can use an over-the-counter remedy to relieve some symptoms, but the virus just has to run its course. You may notice a worsening of symptoms in the first three to five days. After that, your signs and symptoms should gradually clear on their own.

 Viral

There are no specific treatment options to treat this type of conjunctivitis. In this situation your provider will educate you on how to reduce symptoms and prevent spreading the infection to the other eye or to other people.

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