Different types of conjunctivitis include eye infections from contacts, to viral infections of the eyes, and despite its scientific name, conjunctivitis is more commonly known as pink eye. This is the inflammation of eye’s mucous membrane, the conjunctiva. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye problems caused by infection, allergens, and foreign body contaminants. Find out more about the various kinds of conjunctivitis below.

7 Types of Conjunctivitis

1. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common among all the types of conjunctivitis. Bacteria may infect your eyes, through direct contact or exposure, to some contaminated surfaces. It can be treated with antibiotic eye ointments or eye drops to fight the bacteria. Treatment may take around 1-2 weeks.

2. Chlamydial and Gonococcal Conjunctivitis

Chlamydial and gonococcal conjunctivitis are types of bacterial eye problems borne from sexually transmitted diseases such as, chlamydia and gonorrhea. Chlamydial infection such as, trachoma may scar the eye’s surface, and may cause blindness.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis usually occurs when substances you’re sensitive or allergic to, enter your eye. Such allergens include dust mites, animal dander, or pollen. There are special eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis which contain antihistamines to stop the allergic reactions.

4. Viral Conjunctivitis

A watery discharge often characterizes viral conjunctivitis. This type of conjunctivitis is very contagious that it can affect both eyes. Viruses are commonly spread through coughing and sneezes, and may come with the flu or common cold. Treatment for viral conjunctivitis only involves therapy for its symptoms, while the virus goes away on its own.

5. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis

Giant papillary conjunctivitis or GPC has symptoms of intolerance to contact lenses, heavy discharge, bumps beneath the eyelids, and itchy eyes. People who often wear soft contact lenses are more susceptible to acquiring GPC. Your eye doctor may then, advise you to switch lenses, or stop wearing them for a while.

6. Neonatal Conjunctivitis

Women with chlamydial, have a higher risk of giving birth to a baby with neonatal conjunctivitis. While some STI’s are treatable, the herpes virus also causes neonatal conjunctivitis. This type of conjunctivitis may be prevented if any sexually transmitted infections are treated, or in the case of herpes, you are actively taking an antiviral medication.

7. Non-Infectious Conjunctivitis

Although conjunctivitis can be caused by bacterial and viral infections, other things such as chemicals, perfumes, diesel exhaust, or smoke, can cause the eye to become inflamed. Other causes also include the ingestion of certain herbs such as, turmeric.

Watch this short educational video from Abihail Abihu to find out more about conjunctivitis!

Anyone can contact conjunctivitis from the physical contact. Conjunctivitis is commonly characterized by red and itchy eyes. Treatment for conjunctivitis consists of antibiotics and other supplements, that help ease symptoms.The best way to avoid an eye infection leading to conjunctivitis is to avoid touching your eyes or exposing them to foreign substances and allergens. Always consult your doctor for the best treatment methods for eye problems.

Have you ever had a pink eye before? What kind of conjunctivitis did you have? Share your thoughts and experience with us in the comments below!

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