A-B

C-D

E-G

H-I

J-O

P-R

S-Z

 Conjunctivitis

What Is It?

An inflammation of the eyelid's underside and white part of the eye. 

Symptoms

• Clear, green or yellow discharge from the eye
• Crusts on lashes that cause eyelids to stick together after sleeping
• Swollen eyelids
• Sensitivity to bright light
• Redness and gritty feeling in the eye
• Intense itching

Causes

• Viral infection
• Bacterial infection
• Chemical irritation or wind, dust, smoke, air pollution, or home chemicals
• Cosmetics, pollen, or other allergens
• A partially closed tear duct
• Intense light, such as from sunlamps or snow reflection

Preventive Measures

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water
• Do NOT share eye makeup or cosmetics, towels or washcloths
• Avoid exposure to eye irritants

Treatment

• MAKE AN APPOINTMENT at the Health Center to see if antibiotic eye drops are needed
• Warm moist compresses can be applied to the closed eye for relief
• Do not touch the infected eye because the infection will spread to the good eye
• Remove contact lenses and leave out as long as the eye is irritated or being treated

For more information contact the UNC Student Health Center at  351-2412.