Conjunctivitis is inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and inside of the eyelids. It causes redness, irritation, and discharge.
⚙️ Types of Conjunctivitis
Type
Cause
Features
Viral conjunctivitis
Usually caused by adenoviruses
Watery discharge, contagious, often with cold symptoms
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Bacterial infection (Staph, Strep, etc.)
Thick, yellow/green discharge, eyelids may stick together
Allergic conjunctivitis
Allergens like pollen, dust mites
Itching, redness, watery eyes, often both eyes affected
Irritant conjunctivitis
Chemical exposure or foreign body
Redness, irritation, usually no discharge
📋 Symptoms
Redness in the white of the eye
Eye irritation or burning
Tearing or discharge
Eyelid swelling
Sensitivity to light
Crusting of eyelids, especially in bacterial cases
🩺 Diagnosis
Mostly clinical based on symptoms and appearance
Swab of eye discharge if infection is severe or unclear
💊 Treatment
Type
Treatment
Viral
Usually self-limiting; cold compresses, artificial tears, good hygiene
Bacterial
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments
Allergic
Antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops, avoid allergens
