Definition
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the very thin clear membrane that lines the eyelids and the whites of the eyes.
Conjunctivitis is commonly called pink-eye.
Signs and Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
May include any of the following:
- pinkish or reddish tinge to inner eyelids and whites of eyes
- swelling of the lining of the eyelids and over the whites of the eyes
- discharge from the eye (varies in appearance from thin and watery to thick and greenish, depending on the cause)
- third eyelid may protrude from the inner corner of the eye, parially covering eye
- squinting
- excessive blinking
- rubbing the eyes (with paws or by rubbing the face on items like furniture or carpet)
Causes of Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis has numerous causes, and based on the history, signs, and physical examination, your vet will recommend further diagnostic tests to try to sort out the cause of conjunctivitis. Possible causes can include:
- viral infections
- bacterial infections
- allergies
- dry eye (lack of tear production)
- irritants in environment
- foreign bodies
- eyelid abormalities
- fungal infections
- parasites
Treatment
Your vet will recommend a course of treatment based on the cause of the conjunctivitis (as determined by the exam and any tests). Eye ointments or drops are usually prescribed but the type will depend on the cause. It is important to carefully follow your vet's instructions for applying the medication and to keep any follow up appointments.