A common ( and sometimes epidemic ) inflammation of the front membrane of the eye, it can be made out by the redness "pink eye " of the eye and lid swelling. There are two main types of conjunctivitis -

1. Infective (caused by bacteria or viral)
   INFECTIVE CONJUNCTIVITIS tends to spread rapidly, creating epidemics. The virus or bacteria spread by "fomite" and "droplet" route. Physical contact, proximity are the channels of infection transfer. The eye turns red, feels irritable, gritty, watery and discharges yellow or white material. Antibiotic eye drops along with soothing anti-inflammatory eye drops help curtail the infection and shorten its course.

2. Allergic
   ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS otherwise called "spring catanh", is seasonal in its occurrence March-April being the peak. it is caused by some pollens and other similar proteins, which irritate the eyes. The children are most commonly affected. This disease is not contagious; the child finds itching and redness as the commonest symptom. Non steroid anti inflammatory eye drops " membrane stabilizer" eye drops and "safer" steroids are used to treat allergic conjunctivitis. Most children "grow out" of the eye allergy as they enter their teens.

Can I use "general" or "common" eye drops for Red eyes ... ?
The causes of "Red Eye" are many, from Infection to Allergy to Pollution induced dryness. The treatment of each differs significantly from the other. So, its preferable to consult your eye doctor before using any eye medication.

I have irritation in my eyes with sticky discharge, can I use antibiotics ... ?
Allergic eye conditions are associated with these symptoms. Your eye doctor would probably prescribe one of the anti allergy eye drops. It would help to protect ones eyes from dust, using dust protective eye glasses mainly outdoors.

What do I do if dust particles get in my eyes ... ?
The first thing to do is NOT to rub the eye! Its best to blink rapidly a few times. If a particle is in the eye, profuse tears will come, which usually will wash away the particle. If this doesn't work, one could instill antibiotic eye drops to try and flush away the particle. If this too doesn't work, some antibiotic ointment could be used till you reach the nearest doctor.

How do I reduce the risk of getting conjunctivitis during an epidemic ? Do I get it by looking into a red eye ... ?
Infective conjuntivitis spreads by proximity and contact , going close to or touching infected material, like the patients fingers, handkerchief or touching infected currency notes, can all increase risk of infection. If a family member has conjunctivitis, then its advisable to isolate him/her, as far as is practical. Use of appropriate eye medication, as determined by your eye doctor, would go a long way in controlling the disease.