Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis and bacterial conjunctivitis may affect one or both eyes. The presence of a sticky discharge from the eye, particularly after sleeping would indicate that this is bacterial conjunctivitis. In cases of allergic conjunctivitis, itchiness and tearing are common symptoms. Blepharoconjunctivitis is the dual combination of conjunctivitis with blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). Bacterial pink eye is treated by repeated warm washcloths applied to the eyes (try applying these to your child’s eye one eye at a time during a favorite video) and requires antibiotic eyedrops or ointment prescribed by the doctor. Contact lens wearers particularly are vulnerable to pink eye, which can be caused by infections from poor hygiene in the handling of lenses, solutions and cases. Also, some soft contact lens wearers can develop an abnormal immune response that can cause giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC).