Conjunctivitis
What Is It?
An inflammation of the eyelid's underside and white part of the eye.
Symptoms
- Clear, green or yellow discharge from the eye
- Crusts on lashes that cause eyelids to stick together after sleeping
- Swollen eyelids
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Redness and gritty feeling in the eye
- Intense itching
Causes
- Viral infection
- Bacterial infection
- Chemical irritation or wind, dust, smoke, air pollution, or home chemicals
- Cosmetics, pollen, or other allergens
- A partially closed tear duct
- Intense light, such as from sunlamps or snow reflection
Preventive Measures
- Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water
- Do NOT share eye makeup or cosmetics, towels or washcloths
- Avoid exposure to eye irritants
Treatment
- Make an appointment at the Health Center to see if antibiotic eye drops are needed
- Warm moist compresses can be applied to the closed eye for relief
- Do not touch the infected eye because the infection will spread to the good eye
- Remove contact lenses and leave out as long as the eye is irritated or being treated
For more information contact the UNC Student Health Center at 351-2412.