Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the underside of the eyelid 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 Infections
- Bacterial Infections
- Chemical irritation or wind, dust, smoke, air pollution, or home chemicals
- Cosmetics, pollen, or other allergens
- partially closed or blocked tear duct
-
Intense light, such as from sunlamps or snow reflection
Preventive Measures:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water before touching eyes
- Do not share eye makeup or cosmetics, towels, or washcloths
- Avoid exposure to eye irritants
Treatment:
- See your health care provider to see if antibiotic eye drops are needed
- Warm moist compresses can be applied to the closed eye for relief
- Do no touch the infected eye because the infection will spread to your other eye
- Remove contact lenses and leave out as long as the eye is irritated or being treated
For more information contact the Student Health Center at 970-351-2412
