conjunctivitis

The conjunctivitis - Inflammation of the conjunctiva, causing redness, discomfort, and discharge from the affected eye.

TYPES AND SYMPTOMS:
There are two common types: infective conjunctivitis, caused by bacteria or viruses; and allergic conjunctivitis, an allergic response to substances such as cosmetics and pollen. Both types may have similar symptoms. In infective conjunctivitis, the discharge contains pus and may result in the eyelids being stuck together on waking in the mornings. In allergic conjunctivitis, the discharge is clear and the eyelids are often swollen and itchy.

Other forms of conjunctivitis that occur less commonly include neonatal ophthalmia (infective eye disease in newborns), keratoconjunctivitis (inflammation of both the conjunctiva and the cornea), and trachoma (a serious form of chlamydial infection).

TREATMENT:
Bacterial infections are treated with eyedrops or ointment containing an antibiotic drug. Viral conjunctivitis often disappears without the need for treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis may be treated with eyedrops that contain cromoglicate, an antihistamine, or a corticosteroid drug.