Overview
Conjunctivitis is the medical term that translates to inflammation of the conjunctiva, or the tissue lining the inside of the eyelids and eye, commonly known as pink eye. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or even chemicals irritating the membranes of the eye. If a foreign body gets in the eye, it can also cause a discharge that may mimic pink eye. In general, viruses cause a more watery secretion, and bacterial conjunctivitis results in a thicker, yellowish secretion. Pink eye in the first 2–3 weeks of life can be serious.
In addition to the common bacterial and viral causes, conjunctivitis in the first few weeks of life can be the result of an infection acquired during vaginal delivery. Every newborn now receives a dose of antibiotic eye drops to prevent some types of conjunctivitis that are acquired through the birth canal.
