Conjunctivitis refers to an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane covering the front of the eye. This is also referred to as having 'sore eyes' and is a very common form of eye trouble. It spreads from person to person through direct Contact. Overcrowding, dirty surroundings and unhealthy living conditions can cause epidemics of this ailment.

• Viruses.
• Bacteria (Such as gonorrhea or Chlamydia)
• Irritants such as shampoos, dirt, smoke and pool chlorine.
• Allergies like dust, pollen or a special type of allergy that affects some contact lens wearers.

• Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid.
• Increased amount of tears.
• Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after the sleep.
• Green or white discharge from the eye.
• Itchy eyes.
• Burning eyes.
• Blurred vision.
• Increased sensivity to light.
  

• Vegetable Juices: Raw juices of certain vegetables, especially carrots and spinach, have been found valuable in conjunctivitis. The combined juices of these two vegetables have proved very effective. In this combination, 200 ml of spinach juice should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice. Raw parsley (prajmoda) juice-200 ml, mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice has also been found beneficial in the treatment of this disease.
• Indian Gooseberry: The juice of the Indian gooseberry, mixed with honey, is useful in conjunctivitis. A cup of this juice should be taken mixed with two teaspoons of honey twice daily in treating this condition.
• Vitamins: Vitamins A and B2 have proved useful in conjunctivitis. The patient should take liberal quantities of natural foods rich in these two vitamins. Foods rich in vitamin A are wholemilk, curds, butter, carrots, pumpkin, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, mangoes, and papaya. Foods rich in vitamin B2 are green leafy vegetables, milk, almonds, citrus fruits, bananas, and tomatoes.
• Coriander: A decoction prepared with a handful of dried coriander in 60 ml of water is an excellent eye-wash in conjunctivitis. It is said to relieve burning and reduces pain and swelling. This decoction should, however, be sparingly used by persons suffering from bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.
  

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious. In daycare centers, the infections can spread quickly from child to child. To prevent the transmission of infection, caregivers and children should wash their hands frequently, especially if one child develops the infection. Children should not share towels or any other object that touches the face (i.e. pillows, stuffed animals). Children with conjunctivitis should not attend school or daycare until the infection has cleared up completely. People who suffer from allergic conjunctivitis should try to minimize their exposure to the allergen if possible. Wear glasses outdoors, and avoid touching your eyes.