Causes include:

• Bacterial infection: Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia and Haemophilus influenza
• Viral infection: Generally caused by adenoviruses
• Allergic reaction to substances such as pollen, household dust, and pet dander
• Irritants such as pollutants, smoke, chlorine in swimming pools etc

Risk factors include:

• Contact with secretions from eye of an infected person - conjunctivitis is highly contagious
• Exposure to irritants
• Exposure to allergens
• Contact lens users - extended use of contact lens or unhygenic practices like not washing hands before taking off or inserting the lens

• Do not touch your eyes after touching any other objects or surfaces without washing the hands.
• Do not share items such as makeup, pillows, or towels used by an infected person. -Avoid sharing eye makeup and contact lenses with anyone.

Usually it resolves without any complications, in rare cases it may include:

• Corneal irritation
• Blepharitis or swollen and reddened edges of the eyelids
• Vision loss in severe cases

Most cases of conjunctivitis get better on their own without any treatment. Self-care practices can provide symptom relief. Sometimes, medication may be required.

Medication

Antibiotic eye drops or ointments: To treat bacterial infections.

Chloramphenicol . Moxifloxacin/Ciprofloxacin

Antihistamine eye drops: Treats allergic conjunctivitis by reducing inflammation.

Olopatadine

Steroids: Steroid eyedrops may be used to reduce scarring in severe membranous conjunctivitis. Usually recommended in very rare cases.

Loteprednol