Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. It can be highly contagious (it spreads rapidly in schools and day cares), but it’s rarely serious. It's very unlikely to damage your vision, especially if you find it and treat it quickly. Causes for conjunctivitis: - Viruses - Bacteria - Allergies - Irritants and chemicals such as shampoo, creams, dirt and chlorinated water - Conjunctivitis sometimes results from a sexually transmitted disease (STD ). Though fairly commonly in adults, If it happens in a newborn baby, though, tell a doctor right away, as it might be an infection that threatens the baby’s vision. Symptoms: - Swollen conjunctiva - Redness in the whites of the eye - Thick discharge which forma crusts over the lashes - Itchy and Burning eyes Treatment: Usually the treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the cause. If its viral, eye drops and ointments with warm compresses may relieve the symptoms and if taken care of properly it goes away with 4 to 6 days For bacterial causes with above mentioned treatment, antibiotics are also prescribed. Irritants. For pinkeye caused by an irritating substance, use water to wash the substance from the eye for 5 minutes. Your eyes should begin to improve within 4 hours.