If you are experiencing pinkness or redness in the eye, blurred vision, sandy or scratchy feeling in the eye, or pus or watery discharge from the eye, you may have conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye".

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva or thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid.  It affects people of all ages.

What causes conjunctivitis?

The three main types of conjunctivitis are infectious, allergic and chemical.

Bacterial infections can cause a red eye which is associated with a pus or discharge from the eye.  Viruses can cause conjunctivitis.  Viral conjunctivitis usually produces a watery discharge and lasts from one to two weeks.

Allergies such as hay fever, can cause itchy eyes and may produce a discharge.  Other allergies may produce a chronic red eye.

Environmental irritants such as smoke, fumes, or air pollution may cause conjunctivitis.

What is the treatment?

Infectious conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops and/or ointment.  Allergic and chemical forms must have the cause of the allergy or irritation removed or minimized.  If the allergen or irritant cannot be removed, prescription and over-the-counter eye drops are available to help relieve the discomfort.

What can be done to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis?

• Seek treatment promptly.
  
• Keep your hands away from your eyes.
  
• Wash your hands often, especially prior to and after applying cosmetics and administering eye drops.
  
• Discard any items such as eye makeup, etc. and replace.
  
• Disinfect contact lenses or if using disposables replace with new after conjunctivitis is completely cleared
  Do not share towels, washcloths or cosmetics.