Conjunctivitis

Also known as pink eye.  An infection of the conjunctiva, a transparent membrane of the eye.  Symptoms depend on the cause.  Viral infections cause watery discharge, redness, irritation, and sensitivity to light.  Allergic irritations affect both eyes, with itching, tearing, discharge, and swollen eyelids.  Bacterial infection begin in one eye with redness, heavy discharge, tearing, irritation, and eyelids sticking together.  Treatment also depends on cause.  Viral conjunctivitis lasts about one week in mild cases, and up to three weeks in severe cases.  Cool compresses and artificial tears give some relief.  Allergic conjunctivitis is treated the same way. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical antibiotics for 7-10 days.  Occasionally oral antibiotics are also necessary.  Conjunctivitis caused by burns, toxins, and chemicals require washout with saline beneath both eyelids and may require topical steroids.