What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, better know as Pink Eye, is inflammation of the covering of the front of your eye and the inside of your eyelid. It can be caused by allergies, bacteria. viruses, or chemicals.

Pink Eye may clear on its own, but sometimes needs treatment.

Symptoms include a red, irratated eye, scratching or burning sensation, itching, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). There may be a purulent (pus) or a mucous type discharge, more when you awaken.

How is it treated?

It depends on what caused the Pink Eye. It may or may not need medication for treatment. Viral conjunctivitis will not be helped by antibiotics; bacterial conjunctivitis needs antibiotic drops or ointment.

It is often difficult to differentiate between viral and bacterial.

For allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamines may be given.

If medication is given, follow the directions on the label completely.

What else do I need to know?

Only Pink Eye caused by bacteria or viruses is contagious. To prevent the spread of the infection:

Wash hand thoroughly
- Before you use the medicine in your eyes
- After you use the medicine in your eyes
- Every time you touch your eyes or face
Wash any clothing touched by infected eyes.
Do not share towels, pillows, face cloths, and make-up. if the infection is caused by bacteria or a virus you must throw away your used make-up and buy new make-up.
Do not touch the infected eye because the infection will spread to the good eye. It will also spread to other people on pens, pencils, door knobs, and computers!!

PINK EYE SPREADS VERY EASILY!!!