What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid Greater amount of tears Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep (in conjunctivitis caused by bacteria) Other discharge from your eye (green or white) Itchy eyes (especially in conjunctivitis caused by allergies) Burning eyes (especially in conjunctivitis caused by chemicals and irritants) Blurred vision Increased sensitivity to light Ear infections also commonly occur in children who have bacterial conjunctivitis.

See your ophthalmologist if you have any of these persistent symptoms. The ophthalmologist will examine your eyes and possibly take a sample of fluid from the eyelid with a cotton swab. Bacteria or viruses that may have caused conjunctivitis can then be seen through a microscope.

How can I prevent spreading the infection?

• Don't touch or rub the infected eye(s).
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
• Wash any discharge from your eyes twice a day using a fresh cotton ball or paper towel. Afterwards, discard the cotton ball and wash your hands with soap and warm water.
• Wash your bed linens, pillowcases, and towels in hot water and detergent.
• Avoid wearing eye makeup.
• Don't share eye makeup or eye drops with anyone else.
• Never wear another person's contact lens.
• Wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
• Throw away disposable lenses or be sure to clean extended wear lenses and all eyewear cases.
• Avoid sharing common articles such as unwashed towels, cups, and glasses.
• Wash your hands after applying the eye drops or ointment to your eye or your child's eye.
• Do not use eye drops in a non-infected eye that were used for an infected eye.
• If your child has bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, keep him or her home from school or day care until he or she is no longer contagious.

The eyes can become re-infected. Call your doctor if symptoms last for more than three days after treatment.