Allergic Conjunctivitis

ALSO KNOWN AS
Pink eye, red eye, or conjunctivitis

DESCRIPTION
* Conjunctivitis is a condition in which the white part of the eye becomes inflamed, red, and irritated. Anything that irritates or infects the white part of the eye can cause Conjunctivitis. Viral and allergic causes tend to have clear or "white eye discharge." Bacterial causes, e.g., Staphylococcus, tend to have yellow or green eye discharge.

SYMPTOMS
* White of eye is red
* Eye itching
* Watery eye discharge
* White eye discharge
* Yellow or green eye discharge

CAUSE
* Allergies
* Dry eyes

HOW THE DIAGNOSIS IS MADE
* Clear discharge, sudden onset -- usually Viral Conjunctivitis ("Pink Eye")
* Clear discharge, seasonal, or related to environment -- allergic
* Colored discharge -- usually bacterial (can still occasionally be viral) -- cultures may be done
* Sicca (dry) Eyes -- diagnosed by Schirmer's test

TREATMENT
* Viral (pink eye) -- none, but wash hands cautiously and avoid touching eye, as it is very contagious
* Gonorrhea -- Ceftriaxone by injection
* Chlamydia -- Doxycycline, Erythromycin, Azithromycin
* Bacterial causes -- antibiotic eye drops, e.g., Polytrim
* Allergic Eye -- topical lodoxamide, Naphcon A eye drops, other allergy eye drops
* Dry Eyes -- artificial tear drops
* Treatment precaution:

- Some antibiotic eye drop preparations contain corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can be helpful in some infections, but can make others worse. In most instances, drops containing corticosteroids should only be prescribed by an ophthalmologist (medical doctor who specializes in eye diseases).

MISCELLANEOUS
* Contact Lenses

- Contact lens use increases the risk of bacterial Conjunctivitis. Extended wear contacts have the highest risk. Use proper sterile techniques when handling your lenses. Follow instructions on how to clean your lenses carefully.