Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva – the mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and the exposed surface of the eyeball. When inflammation and infection happen, conjunctival membranes become red, which causes eye discharge – this is why sometimes in the morning eyelashes are glued.

The conjunctiva is in constant contact with the environment and therefore is exposed to bacteria and other irritants. Tears bathe the surface of the eye – containing the enzymes and antibodies which inhibit the growth of bacterial infection and thus protect the surface of the eye.

Conjunctivitis is the most common eye disease and varies from mild inflammation with watery eyes to severe inflammation that can lead to serious complications.

There is six types of conjunctivitis: Viral, Bacterial, Allergic, Giant Papillary ( GPC ) and Chronic.