Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear layer covering the sclera (the white part of the eye).  It is sometimes called "pink eye", but since conjunctivitis has many different causes that often look alike, the term "pink eye" is often misleading. Not all cases of conjunctivitis are contagious, but some are. It is accompanied by redness, irritation, discharge, itching or a foreign body sensation in the eye.

Causes

Prevention & Treatment

To avoid spreading conjunctivitis, wash your hands often, keep your fingers away from the eyes, don't share towels or pillows with anyone and avoid using makeup. If you feel makeup may be contaminated, it is best to discard it to end the irritation quicker. A child with bacterial conjunctivitis sould be kept from school since this condition typically spreads very quickly. Sometimes antibiotic drops are required to treat this condition, but not always.

If you feel you may have conjunctivitis, or may have any irritation, please call to discuss this with Dr. Chretien.

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