Conjunctivitis
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Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, occurs when the conjunctiva, a thin layer that lines the eyelid and eyeball, becomes inflamed or swells up. It is a common but also treatable eye condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include pink/red color in the white part of the eye, watery eyes, itchiness, and discharge from the eye(s).
Causes
Viruses and bacteria: cause highly contagious conjunctivitis.
Allergens: affect both eyes; not contagious; it is the body’s reaction to allergens.
Irritation (chemicals/other foreign bodies): not contagious, may be caused by contact lenses/eye cosmetics.
Treatment
Treatments for conjunctivitis vary depending on the type, but artificial tears and cold/warm compress can usually help relieve some symptoms.
Viral conjunctivitis usually takes 7-14 days to go away without any treatment, but antiviral medication can treat more serious cases.
Bacterial conjunctivitis usually clears up within a week, but antibiotics can also be used.
Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis includes removing the allergen and using eyedrops or taking medicine.
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