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Conjunctivitis, also known as "pinkeye", is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid.
Conjunctivitis caused by some bacteria and viruses can spread easily from person to person, but are not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly.
The symptoms of conjunctivitis differ based on the cause of the inflammation, but may include:
See your eye doctor if you have any of these symptoms of conjunctivitis. He or she will conduct an exam of your eyes and may take a sample of fluid from the eyelid using a cotton swab to be analyzed in a microbiology lab. Bacteria or viruses that may have caused conjunctivitis, including a sexually transmitted disease or STD, can then be identified and proper treatment prescribed.
How Is Conjunctivitis Treated?
The treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the cause.
To relieve the symptoms of conjunctivitis: