What causes conjunctivitis in adults?

What causes conjunctivitis? The conjunctiva can become inflamed as a result of: a bacterial or viral infection – this is known as infective conjunctivitis. an allergic reaction to a substance such as pollen or dust mites – this is known as allergic conjunctivitis.

Can adults get conjunctivitis?

While adults can develop conjunctivitis, it is much more common among children. It is often contagious. Make sure you don’t share towels or face cloths, and stay away from preschool, school or work until the discharge from the eyes has stopped.

Can a person have conjunctivitis in both eyes?

It happens when the conjunctiva is irritated by an infection or allergies. Your eyes are red and swollen (inflamed), and sometimes they have a sticky discharge. You can have conjunctivitis in one or both eyes.

Can you get pink eye with bacterial conjunctivitis?

This conjunctivitis is very contagious and often spreads through schools and other crowded places. It usually causes burning, red eyes with a watery discharge. Bacterial conjunctivitis is also very contagious. An infection from bacteria causes this form of pink eye. With bacterial conjunctivitis, you have sore, red eyes with a lot of sticky pus.

How to prevent conjunctivitis from spreading from person to person?

Some conjunctivitis can spread from person to person. Follow these tips so you will not infect other people or re-infect yourself. Use a clean towel or tissue each time you wipe your face and eyes. Wash your hands very often. Always wash them before and after you eat, when you go to the bathroom, or after you sneeze or cough.

How to tell if you have allergic conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis. The irritation can also come from cigarette smoke, car fumes, pool chlorine or other toxic substances. The main symptom of allergic pink eye is itchy eyes. Other symptoms include red, burning and tearing eyes and puffy eyelids. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.