The conjunctiva is a thin membrane covering the inside of the eyelids and the white part of the eye (the sclera). Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva is called conjunctivitis ("pink eye"). It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi; allergy; exposure to chemicals or irritants; or long-term presence of a foreign body, such as hard or rigid contact lenses. Viruses causing the common cold can also result in conjunctivitis. The time course for viral conjunctivitis is similar to that of upper respiratory tract infections, with the worst symptoms occurring at 3 to 5 days and resolving in 7 to 14 days. Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. These bacteria live on human skin and can contaminate eye makeup or other products. Less commonly, chlamydia or gonorrhea infections can cause conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually resolves in 2 to 5 days without treatment but may need topical antibiotics (eye drops or ointment). These types of infectious conjunctivitis are very contagious and easily spread between people.
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