Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the front of the eye (except the cornea) and the back of the eyelids. The eye feels gritty and waters, and appears red. The vision is normal; though the tears may make it blurred, blinking clears it. One or both eyes may be affected. There are a number of causes:

Bacterial infection is usually caused by a germ called staphylococcus, though there may be other bacteria involved, particularly in contact lens wearers, It often affects children, in whom the thick green discharge may cause the eyelids to become stuck together overnight. This may be removed by bathing with warm salt solution. Antibiotic drops are required to effect a cure. It is highly infectious.

Viral infection, often associated with infection of the upper respiratory tract - the nose and throat, as with a cold - causes a clear discharge. The eyes are red, painful and run. Antibiotic drops are ineffective, though anti-inflammatory drops may provide symptomatic relief. The symptoms resolve when the disease has run its course.

Allergic conjunctivitis may occur as a result of sensitivity to something in the air - such as pollen or cat fur - or may be due to agents placed in the eye, such as contact lens cleaner or cosmetics. The eye may feel itchy rather than gritty. The eyelids may be swollen. Bathing the eye with saline solution may give relief, and anti-histamines and anti-inflammatory drops may help.
 
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