There are 4 main types of conjunctivitis inflammation:

Bacterial conjunctivitis: As the name suggests, bacterial conjunctivitis is a bacterial infection. This form of conjunctivitis can be caused by streptococcus, but also by the bacteria related to sexually transmitted infections gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Usually, this form of conjunctivitis isn't painful but may cause damage to the eyes if left untreated.

Viral conjunctivitis: Another common type of conjunctivitis that is highly contagious and a viral infection, as it's spread through airborne virus particles while sneezing and coughing. Viral infectious conjunctivitis can accompany common respiratory infections, such as measles, the flu, or the common cold when your immune system is weak. It normally starts in one infected eye, before moving to the other one, and can accompany symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat.

Conjunctivitis due to irritation: In this form of conjunctivitis, the conjunctiva gets irritated by external factors, such as a foreign body like a dust particle, too much UV light (this can happen if you go skiing without wearing sunglasses) or from chlorinated water when you have been in swimming pools.

Allergic conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis develops as a reaction to particles that cause an allergic reaction. This can happen, for example, if you have hay fever or other allergens, such as dust mites, cats, dogs or other pets. Allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva can be seasonal or perennial, depending on the allergen that affects you.

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What is conjunctivitis?