CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that covers the sclera, the white part of the eye, and the inside of the eyelids. Literally, conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva. There are many causes of conjunctivitis. The three most common causes are viruses, bacteria and allergies. The viral and bacterial types of conjunctivitis are commonly called "PINKEYE."

There are several viruses that can cause conjunctivitis. Most viral infections cause redness of the eye, tearing, light sensitivity and a clear discharge, The infection usually lasts for ten days to two weeks and resolves spontaneously. One particular viral conjunctivitis can be associated with a sore throat. In adults, it is called adenovirus conjunctivitis or epidemical keratoconjunctivitis. In children, it is called pharyngoconjunctival fever. Most viruses that affect the eye are contagious. This means that they can spread from person- to-person. They spread by direct contact. Because of this, when one has viral conjunctivitis, they are usually cautioned to be very careful not to touch their eyes and then touch anything else. Often, people are advised to stay home from school or work for the first few days, the most contagious period of the virus. One exception to these comments is the infection caused by the Herpes simplex virus. It will be discussed in another file.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (germs) on the surface of the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis is characterized by redness of the eye, mild discomfort, and a white-to-yellow discharge. Most bacterial infections are treated with antibiotic eyedrops or ointments and resolve rapidly. Some unusual types of bacterial conjunctivitis need to be treated with systemic antibiotics in addition to the topical medication.

Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by itching, along with redness and swelling of the eye. Allergies in the eye can be from direct contact with the allergen or can be related to a systemic allergic reaction. Allergic conjunctivitis will sometimes respond to systemic anti-allergy medicines (eg. Antihistamines). Antihistamines are also available in eyedrop form to treat the eye directly.

All eye infections should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist so that the specific cause can be identified and the appropriate treatment given.

Copyright, 1997. Richard E. Gans, M. D.

Click here to send email to Dr. Gans

Click here to return to the Gans & Martyn, M.D.s, Inc. Home Page