# Conjunctivitis
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**Conjunctivitis** is an infection of the [[eyes|conjunctiva]] of the eye.
Usually caused by a virus, but less commonly it's a bacteria. Even then it usually starts as a virus which makes way for the bacteria.
It's very contagious
## Signs & Symptoms
Increased tearing
Eye pain
Redness in the eyes
Gritty feeling in the eyes
Itching of the eye
Blurred vision
Photophobia: sensitivity to light (dim lights)
Crusts that form on the eyelid overnight
## Dx
Pinkeye is one of those things where "you know it when you see it"
Diagnostic test and Treatment for
conjunctivitis
• Eye examination
• Conjunctiva eye swab for analysis (Culture)
• Treatment depends on the cause & treat underlying
cause
• Bacteria are uncommon
• Ophthalmia neonatorum
• Viral conjunctivitis will disappear on its own
Warm/cool compresses to closed eyes
## Complications
• Viral conjunctivitis is very contagious
• Reinfections within a household or
school may occur if preventative
measures are not followed
• Patient should keep their hands away
from their eyes
• Frequent hand washing
• Change pillowcases frequently
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