Often called “pink eye”, conjunctivitis is a common eye disease, especially in children, that can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. The condition is caused by the swelling or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Causes may or may not be infectious.
Causes & Risk Factors
There are three main types of conjunctivitis: allergic, infectious, and chemical. The cause of conjunctivitis varies depending on the type.
Symptoms
Allergic symptoms include clear, watery discharge, mild eye redness, and itching
Bacterial infection symptoms include redness, a yellow/green discharge, red and swollen eyelids, and crusty eyelashes
Viral infection symptoms include eye pain, redness, a feeling of grittiness in the eyes, and moderate to severe light sensitivity