Conjunctivitis

Red eye, also called conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the outer surface of the eye, the conjunctiva. It can be of viral, bacterial or allergic origin.

The most common form of conjunctivitis is viral in origin and often resolves on its own. It is characterized by excessive tearing and sometimes more whitish secretions. Artificial tears and cold compresses can relieve symptoms.

Symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis may include redness, yellowish, purulent discharge, and itching. This type of conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic drops prescribed for seven to ten days. It is very important to continue treatment until the end of treatment to avoid a return of the infection.

This type of conjunctivitis is more common during certain times of the year, but patients can have symptoms all year round. It is characterized by red, itchy and watery eyes. Eye allergy sometimes comes with other signs of allergy such as runny nose, sneezing or coughing. It is treated with cold compresses, artificial tears or eye allergy drops.