Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) – What You Need to Know

If your eyes are red, itchy, or watery, you might be dealing with conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye. It’s an inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. The condition is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable and spread quickly if you don’t treat it right.

There are three main types: viral, bacterial, and allergic. Viral pink eye often comes with a cold or respiratory infection and spreads through contact with contaminated hands or surfaces. Bacterial conjunctivitis produces thicker yellow‑green discharge and may need antibiotics. Allergic pink eye shows up during pollen season or after exposure to pet dander and usually affects both eyes at the same time.

Common Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

You’ll notice redness, a gritty feeling, and tearing. Discharge can be clear (allergic), watery (viral) or thick and colored (bacterial). Swelling of the eyelid margin and sensitivity to light are also common.

Most cases improve in a few days, but see a doctor if you experience intense pain, vision changes, a foreign‑body sensation that doesn’t go away, or symptoms lasting more than a week. Babies, contact‑lens wearers, and people with weakened immune systems should get medical advice sooner.

How to Treat and Prevent Conjunctivitis

For viral pink eye, the best approach is rest, warm compresses, and keeping your eyes clean with a gentle saline rinse. Bacterial infections often respond to prescription antibiotic drops or ointments—follow the dosage exactly and finish the full course.

If allergies are the cause, antihistamine eye drops or oral allergy meds can bring relief. Over‑the‑counter lubricating drops also help soothe irritation for any type.

Preventing spread is simple: wash your hands often with soap, avoid touching your eyes, and use a clean towel each time you wipe away discharge. Replace pillowcases and towels daily during an outbreak, and don’t share eye makeup or contact‑lens solutions.If you wear contacts, switch to glasses until the infection clears, then disinfect lenses thoroughly before putting them back in.

Most importantly, stay aware of your symptoms and act quickly. A few practical steps—hand hygiene, proper medication use, and avoiding eye rubbing—can keep conjunctivitis from turning into a prolonged nuisance.