It can also be caused by allergies, hay fever, chlorine from swimming in pool water, or sometimes it is part of having an illness like measles.

While pinkeye can be alarming because it may make the eyes extremely red and can spread rapidly, it’s a fairly common condition and usually causes no long-term eye or vision damage. But if your child shows symptoms of pinkeye, it’s important to see a doctor. Some kinds of pinkeye go away on their own, but other types require treatment.

Conjunctivitis is most commonly caused by viral infection, often adenovirus, but bacterial infections, allergies, other irritants (e.g. particles of faeces) and dryness are also common etiologies for its occurrence. Both bacterial and viral infections are contagious, but usually don’t require treatment. A rare exception is Herpetic keratoconjunctivitis, which requires treatment antiviral aciclovir. Commonly, conjunctival infections are passed from person-to-person due to lack of hygiene measures.

Signs and Symptoms :

Viral conjunctivitis

• Watery discharge
• Irritation
• Red eye
• Infection usually begins with one eye, but may spread easily to the fellow eye

Allergic conjunctivitis

• Usually affects both eyes
• Itching
• Tearing
• Swollen eyelids

Bacterial conjunctivitis

• Stringy discharge that may cause the lids to stick together, especially after sleeping
• Swelling of the conjunctiva
• Redness
• Tearing
• Irritation and/or a gritty feeling
• Usually affects only one eye, but may spread easily to the fellow eye