What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is a very common eye condition that is usually not serious but can be very uncomfortable and irritating. It is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a transparent mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surfaces of the eyelids. The condition usually affects both eyes, sometimes starting in one and spreading to the other.
Conjunctivitis can occur in very young babies and can be a sign of a more serious infection, but it may be confused with 'sticky eye' (congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction) which is less serious and often clears without treatment. Advise parents to consult a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect a baby has conjunctivitis.
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