![]() Discharge is usually thin and watery, though may become thicker with mucous. Crusting of the lashes with clear or yellow discharge is often noted, and the eyelids are commonly stuck shut in the morning. The eyes often become red, watery, and swolen, with a gritty or foreign body senstation. ![]() Ocular changes may be preceded by cold-like symptoms. Infection can be transmitted through the air by a sneeze, or by contact with contaminated objects such as towels, doorknobs, phones, etc. These viruses are often very contagious, and viral conjunctivitis frequently passes between members of shared environments, such as among children in daycare or between members of a family. Often called “pink eye,” this disease is caused by a number of different viruses, often the same pathogens which are responsible for respiratory infections such as the common cold. Viral conjunctivitis is the most common form. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of conjunctivitis present. Inflammation of the conjunctivae, or conjunctivitis, is a very common problem with many possible causes, including infection, allergy, trauma, and immune reactions. This tissue serves a number of functions, including protection of the eye from injury and infection, as well as production of tear components to keep the eyes moist. ![]() Conjunctiva covers nearly the entire exposed surface of the eye, as well as the inside of the eyelids. Like the tissues which line the inside of the nose and mouth, the conjunctivae are mucous membranes. Many other diseases, from benign to vision-threatening, must be considered and will be described in the following discussion. Conjunctivitis, a generic term which describes inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane which covers the eye, is only one of many causes of red eyes. One of the most commonly seen problems in an eye doctor’s office is the red eye.
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