1. What is Conjunctivitis?

The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of your eye and lines the inside of your eyelids.
Conjunctivitis simply means inflammation of this membrane, which makes the eyes look red and feel irritated.

2. Types and Causes

Conjunctivitis can occur due to:

• Infection – caused by bacteria or viruses (commonly cold or flu viruses) → Infective Conjunctivitis
• Allergy – due to reaction to dust, pollen, pet dander or other allergens → Allergic Conjunctivitis

3. Symptoms

• Depending on the cause, symptoms may vary but can include:
• Redness and swelling of the white part of the eye and eyelids
• Itching, burning or gritty sensation
• Watering or sticky discharge
• Blurred vision (from discharge or tears)
• Eyelids stuck together on waking
• Sensitivity to light
• Sometimes associated cold, sore throat, or fever (in viral cases)

4. Types of Conjunctivitis

Good eyelid care is the most important part of treatment.
This should be done twice a day, even when your eyes feel comfortable, to prevent recurrence.

1. Viral Conjunctivitis
   Usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other.
   Causes watery, red eyes.
   May last 2–3 weeks even with treatment.
   Occasionally, small white spots can appear on the cornea causing temporary glare or blurring.
   Usually heals on its own with supportive care.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
   Often produces sticky yellow discharge.
   Eyelids may be matted or glued on waking.
   Usually improves faster (within a few days) with antibiotic drops or ointment.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
   Triggered by allergens like dust, grass, or pollen.
   Causes itchy, watery, red eyes, often in both eyes.
   May be seasonal (spring/summer) or year-round (dust mite, pets).
   Not contagious.
   
   

5. Preventing Spread (Infective Conjunctivitis)

Bacterial and viral types spread easily by:

• Touching the eyes, then surfaces or other people
• Sharing towels, pillows, tissues, or eye makeup
• Sneezing or coughing nearby

6. Prevention Tips:

• Wash hands frequently
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Use separate towels and pillowcases
• Dispose of tissues immediately after use

(Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.)

6. Treatment Options

• For Infective Conjunctivitis
  Most cases heal naturally in a few days to 2–3 weeks.
  Antibiotic drops/ointment – helpful only for bacterial infections.
  Lubricant drops or gel – relieve discomfort but do not shorten duration.
  Warm compress and lid cleaning – gently remove crusts or discharge.
  Pain relief – Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can ease irritation or fever.
  Steroid drops – occasionally prescribed by an ophthalmologist for severe inflammation.
  
  
• For Allergic Conjunctivitis
  Avoid rubbing your eyes.
  Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
  Lubricant drops for comfort.
  Anti-allergy (antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer) eye drops – used daily, often take 1–2 weeks for full effect.
  Oral antihistamines – can help if symptoms are severe.
  Steroid eye drops – used only under medical supervision for persistent or severe cases.
  
  
• Contact Lens Wearers
  Do not wear contact lenses during any type of conjunctivitis.
  Wait until the infection or allergy is completely resolved and lenses have been properly cleaned or replaced.
  
  
• Possible Complications
  Rarely, viral conjunctivitis may cause temporary corneal inflammation, leading to glare or blurred vision.
  This usually resolves with time and appropriate treatment.
  
  
• When to Seek Medical Advice
  

  See your eye specialist if:

  Symptoms persist beyond 1–2 weeks
  You experience pain, light sensitivity, or reduced vision
  You have recurrent or severe episodes of allergic conjunctivitis