The conjunctiva is the clear, thin tissue that lines the inside of your eyelid and covers the white of your eye. Conjunctivitis is inflammation (swelling and irritation) of your conjunctiva.
What is infectious conjunctivitis ?
Infectious conjunctivitis is caused by infection with a variety of bacteria and viruses. It's often called pinkeye because your eyes turn pink or red.
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Infectious conjunctivitis spreads easily from one eye to the other, as well as from person to person
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It's usually caused by a virus
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Viral conjunctivitis (caused by a virus) lasts 1 to 2 weeks and goes away on its own
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If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, doctors will give you antibiotic eye drops
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To avoid spreading conjunctivitis to others, wash your hands often and avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and bedding
Newborn babies can get infectious conjunctivitis if their mothers have chlamydia or gonorrhea. The infection is passed from the mother to the baby during birth. Babies can go blind if not treated and need to see a doctor right away.
Other things besides infections can cause conjunctivitis. For example, a speck of dirt, contact lens, or makeup can irritate and inflame the conjunctiva. Allergies sometimes cause allergic conjunctivitis.
What are the symptoms of infectious conjunctivitis?
Symptoms usually start in one eye and then spread to the other. Sometimes the infection comes on while you have a cold.
Typical symptoms include:
Sometimes, the liquid coming from your eyes is white or yellow like pus. It may be thick rather than watery. You might wake up with your eyes stuck shut. Washing your eyes with warm water gets them unstuck easily.
Sometimes you may also notice:
If it's caused by bacteria, it's likely that:
