Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common condition that can affect both children and adults. It occurs when the conjunctiva — the clear membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white of the eye — becomes inflamed or infected. Conjunctivitis can last from a few days to up to three weeks and may affect one or both eyes.

The condition is often caused by a virus associated with a cold or flu, but it may also result from bacteria, allergies, a foreign object, or even a chemical splash in the eye. Because it is highly contagious, especially through close contact like handshakes, early diagnosis and treatment are important to protect both you and those around you.

Symptoms of Pink Eye

Pink eye may cause symptoms such as:

If your child shows these signs, schedule an eye exam promptly. While conjunctivitis is usually minor, other eye conditions can look similar, and proper diagnosis is important.

Tests

Eye Examination

Evaluation of muscle tone, strength, eye movements, balance, and coordination.

Discharge Testing

In some cases, your doctor may collect a sample of eye discharge to confirm the cause and guide treatment.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause of conjunctivitis:

Cool Compresses

Medications

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FAQ

What exactly is pink eye, or conjunctivitis, and is it always contagious?

Pink eye is inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, clear membrane over the white of the eye and inner lids—turning it pinkish from irritation, like a rash on the eye’s surface. Causes split: viral (most contagious, watery discharge), bacterial (gunky, treatable), allergic (itchy, non-contagious), or irritant (chemicals). It’s common, hitting 6 million yearly, but handwashing curbs spread—viral self-heals, but bacterial needs drops to avoid complications.

How can you tell the type of pink eye by symptoms?

Viral starts watery with cold-like sniffles, spreading eye-to-eye; bacterial crusts yellow overnight, often one eye first. Allergic bilaterally itches with sneezes, swelling lids seasonally. Painless redness unites them, but vision blur or severe ache signals more—differentiating guides home care vs. doctor dash.

What home remedies help soothe pink eye?

Cool compresses ease swelling, artificial tears flush allergens, and chamomile tea bags (cooled) calm itch—avoid self-medicating antibiotics, as viral worsens with them. Hygiene: separate towels, no rubbing. Most viral clear in 7-10 days; bacterial, doc-prescribed ointments speed it. Comfort first, contagion second.

When should you see a doctor for pink eye?

Rush if newborn (risky gonorrhea), vision dims, light hurts intensely, or symptoms linger >1 week—rules out keratitis or uveitis. Preemies or contact wearers need prompt checks too. It’s rarely vision-stealing, but early intervention prevents scars; telehealth works for mild cases.

How can pink eye be prevented in families and schools?

Viral: hand sanitizer everywhere, no face-touching; bacterial: antibiotics finish courses. Allergic: antihistamines pre-pollen. School rules—stay out till 24 hours post-treatment—curb outbreaks. Boost immunity with sleep, C-vits; it’s a minor nuisance with major prevention power.