Various types of conjunctivitis are distinguished, easch with its own cause. The three main types of conjunctivitis include:

Bacterial conjunctivitis
This is an infection caused by bacteria which is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Stringy discharge that may cause the lids to stick together, especially after sleeping
• Swelling of the conjunctiva
• Redness
• Tears
• Irritation and/or gritty feeling
• Usually affects one eye but may spread easily to the other eye.

In bacterial conjunctivitis, the eyelids may be stuck together particularly in the mornings.

Treatment
Eye preparations that contain agents that either inhibit the growth of or destroy bacteria can be used. Over-the-counter products normally contain sodium sulphecetamide which works to inhibit a broad spectrum of bacteria.

Viral Conjunctivitis
This form of infection is caused by viruses and is identified by the following symptoms:

• Watery discharge
• Irritation and discomfort, there may be symptoms of cold and flu
• Red eye
• Infection usually begins with one eye but may spread easily to the other eye
• Sometimes there are tender lymph nodes around the ear or neck
• This type of conjunctivitis may also spread to affect the cornea (keratitis)