Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

This term describes a group of diseases that cause swelling, itching, burning, and redness of the conjunctiva. The conjunctive is the protective membrane that lines the eyelids and covers exposed areas of the sclera, or white of the eye. Conjunctivitis is contagious can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, allergy, environmental irritants, a contact lens product, eyedrops, or eye ointments.

Treatment

At its onset, conjunctivitis is usually painless and does not harm vision. The infection will clear in most cases without medical care. In some cases, treatment will be needed. If treatment is delayed, the infection may worsen and cause inflammation and vision loss.