Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
Alternative names Return to top
Inflammation - conjunctiva; Pink eyeDefinition Return to top
Conjunctivitis is inflammation or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The conjunctiva is exposed to bacteria and other irritants. Tears help protect the conjunctiva by diluting bacteria and washing it away. Tears also contain enzymes and antibodies which kill bacteria.
There are many causes of conjunctivitis. Viruses are the most common cause. Other causes include bacteria, Chlamydia, fungus, and rarely, parasitic agents.
"Pink eye" refers to a viral infection of the conjunctiva. These infections are especially contagious among children. Handwashing is key to preventing the spread of the virus, which is similar to the type which cause the common cold.
Bacteria are an uncommon cause of conjunctivitis. Many physicians give a mild antibiotic eyedrop for pink eye to prevent bacterial conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is also caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), chemical exposure, and certain systemic diseases.
Newborns can be infected by bacteria in the birth canal. This condition is called ophthalmia neonatorum, and it must be treated immediately to preserve sight. Use of contact lenses, particularly extended-wear lenses, can cause conjunctivitis.
See also:
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
Treatment of conjunctivitis depends upon the cause.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The outcome is usually good with treatment.Complications Return to top
Reinfection within a household or school may occur if preventive measures are not followed.Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms persist longer than 3 or 4 days.Prevention Return to top
Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis:
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |