Reviewed by Dr.Vijaykumar Kamat & written by Dr. Khyati Dave.

Conjunctivitis or Red eye is a very common infection of the conjunctiva.

The conjunctiva is the fine transparent membrane covering the front of the eye.

The affected eye is red and swollen with a sticky discharge. There is a sensation of a foreign body hurting the eye along with burning.

It affects people of any age and is also commonly seen in newborn babies.

It spreads rapidly amongst children due to a lack of proper hygiene.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are usually self-limiting disorders. They do not need much treatment except for anti-microbial eye drops. Even though one eye is affected, treatment should be administered to both eyes. In cases with severe swelling, topical steroids can be used.

It usually resolves completely in a week’s time.