Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a common and uncomfortable eye condition that can be caused by infections, allergies or irritants. The conjunctiva is a thin tissue that covers the front of your eye and the back of your eyelids. The conjunctiva helps protect your eye and keep it moist. One or both eyes may be affected by conjunctivitis, and the condition can spread from one to the other.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis may be different depending on what is causing it, but often includes:
- Red eyes
- Itching Eyes
- Sticky discharge
- A burning feeling in the eyes
- A gritty feeling in the eyes
- Eyelashes having a sticky coating first thing in the morning
- Watery or eyes
Causes of conjunctivitis include:
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Infection with a virus that may also cause a fever and sore throat
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Irritants such as chlorine from swimming pools, shampoo, smoke, fumes or a loose eyelash
- Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis and perennial (all year round) allergic conjunctivitis, caused by pollen, dust mites or pet dander
- Contact dermatoconjunctivitis from eye drops, chemicals or makeup
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis, from wearing contact lenses, eye surgery stitches or any tubes or things fitted during eye operations
The appropriate treatment for conjunctivitis depends on its cause. Treatment methods include eye drops, antihistamines, antibiotics and topical steroids.
If you think you may have conjunctivitis, contact Associated Retina Consultants right away by calling 602-242-4928 or visiting associatedretinaconsultants.com.