Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is the most common eye disease in the Western hemisphere. Because of its exposed position, the conjunctiva comes into contact with more micro organisms than any other membrane. Bacteria, such as pneumococcus, staphylococcus or streptococcus, cause some cases although allergies and some viruses can also cause conjunctivitis. A virus called adenovirus causes other cases. This virus can be spread in many ways including swimming pools, wet towels, etc. The infection usually starts in one eye and is spread to the other quite readily. It usually results in red, irritated eyes and disappears in three days to a week. If the symptoms linger, go to the eye doctor. The infection can enter the cornea and create little clouded areas that may affect vision.
Symptoms:
- Red, irritated eyes
- “Glued” eyelids from discharges overnight upon wakening in the morning
- Sensitivity to light
- A feeling of itchiness and griminess
