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Conjunctivitis

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What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is swelling (inflammation) or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).



Alternative names

Inflammation - conjunctiva; Pink eye



Causes

The conjunctiva is exposed to bacteria and other irritants. Tears help protect the conjunctiva by washing away bacteria. Tears also contain enzymes and antibodies that kill bacteria. There are many causes of conjunctivitis. Viruses are the most common cause. Other causes include: Allergies ( allergic conjunctivitis ) Bacteria Certain diseases Chemical exposure Chlamydia Fungi Parasites (rarely) Use of contact lenses (especially extended-wear lenses) "Pink eye" refers to a viral...



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What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is swelling (inflammation) or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).

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Alternative names

Inflammation - conjunctiva; Pink eye

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Causes

The conjunctiva is exposed to bacteria and other irritants. Tears help protect the conjunctiva by washing away bacteria. Tears also contain enzymes and antibodies that kill bacteria.

There are many causes of conjunctivitis. Viruses are the most common cause. Other causes include:

  • Allergies (allergic conjunctivitis)
  • Bacteria
  • Certain diseases
  • Chemical exposure
  • Chlamydia
  • Fungi
  • Parasites (rarely)
  • Use of contact lenses (especially extended-wear lenses)

"Pink eye" refers to a viral infection of the conjunctiva. These infections are especially contagious among children.

Newborns can be infected by bacteria in the birth canal. This condition is called ophthalmia neonatorum, and it must be treated immediately to preserve eyesight.

See also:

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Symptoms & Signs

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Exams and Tests

  • Examination of the eyes
  • Swab of conjunctiva for analysis
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Treatments

Treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause.

Allergic conjunctivitis may respond to allergy treatment. It may disappear on its own when the allergen that caused it is removed. Cool compresses may help soothe allergic conjunctivitis.

Antibiotic medication, usually eye drops, is effective for bacterial conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis will disappear on its own. Many doctors give a mild antibiotic eyedrop for pink eye to prevent bacterial conjunctivitis.

You can soothe the discomfort of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis by applying warm compresses (clean cloths soaked in warm water) to your closed eyes.

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Prognosis

The outcome is usually good with treatment.

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Possible Complications

Reinfection within a household or school may occur if you don't follow preventive measures.

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When to contact a medical professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your symptoms last longer than 3 or 4 days.

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Prevention

Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis:

  • Change pillowcases frequently.
  • Do not share eye cosmetics.
  • Do not share towels or handkerchiefs.
  • Handle and clean contact lenses properly.
  • Keep hands away from the eye.
  • Replace eye cosmetics regularly.
  • Wash your hands often.
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References

Wirbelauer C. Management of the red eye for the primary care. American Journal of Medicine. 2006;119:302-306.

Mueller JB, McStay CM. Ocular infection and inflammation. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2008.26:57-72.

Rubenstein JB, Jick SL. Disorders of the conjunctiva and limbus. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, Augsburger JJ, et al, eds. Ophthalmology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 55.

Content provided by:

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2008 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Review Date: 11/10/2008

Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.11/10/2008

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Talk

Austin03112007: Horay for contagious conjunctivitis! Cara has crusty eyes this morning too...

Dawnnette: @dreamleftajar yes ahhh! conjunctivitis -.-

enjoynorwich: Our morning a bit fraught already - another early Doctors visit - seems Little Man has conjunctivitis so no nursery today.

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