Medically reviewed by Dr. Niranjana Bejan Singh. Written to established clinical-education standards (AAO/Mayo/NHS/NEI) and adapted for this hospital. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the thin, clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infection, allergies, or irritants, and typically causes redness, discharge, itching, or a gritty feeling in one or both eyes. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own or with simple treatment, but management depends on identifying the likely cause.
Who typically needs this
- Anyone with red, itchy, or watery eyes with discharge, especially when accompanied by a gritty or burning sensation.
- People with recent cold or upper respiratory symptoms (often viral conjunctivitis), known allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), or exposure to someone with pink eye.
- Contact lens wearers with red or irritated eyes, who should be evaluated to rule out more serious causes of similar symptoms.
- Anyone with significant pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes should be seen promptly, as these can signal a condition needing more than routine conjunctivitis care.
What to expect
- Diagnosis is usually made by examining the eye and reviewing symptoms, the type of discharge, and history such as a recent cold, allergy triggers, or contact exposure.
- Viral conjunctivitis is usually managed with supportive care — cool compresses, artificial tears, and time — since it generally resolves on its own.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis may be treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment when the presentation suggests a bacterial cause.
- Allergic conjunctivitis is managed by avoiding triggers where possible, along with antihistamine or anti-allergy eye drops.
- Good hygiene is advised throughout, since infectious forms spread easily.
Recovery
- Most viral and bacterial conjunctivitis cases improve within one to two weeks, often faster with appropriate treatment.
- Contagious forms typically remain infectious for as long as there is active discharge or redness, so avoiding close contact during this time is recommended.
- Allergic conjunctivitis tends to recur with re-exposure to the trigger and is managed on an ongoing basis.
- Follow-up is recommended if symptoms worsen, fail to improve within the expected time, or if vision is affected.
Risks to know about
- Most conjunctivitis is mild, but untreated bacterial infections can occasionally worsen or, rarely, involve deeper eye structures.
- Overuse of over-the-counter redness-relieving drops can mask symptoms or cause rebound redness and is generally best avoided without medical advice.
- Contact lens wearers are at higher risk of more serious corneal infections that can resemble conjunctivitis, so a proper eye examination is important.
- Severe pain, significant vision loss, or lack of improvement need prompt medical evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Is pink eye contagious?
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are usually contagious, spreading through contact with eye discharge or contaminated surfaces; allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
Do I always need antibiotics for pink eye?
No. Many cases are viral or allergic and do not respond to or need antibiotics; a clinical evaluation helps determine the likely cause and appropriate treatment.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have conjunctivitis?
It is best to stop wearing contact lenses until the infection or inflammation has cleared and your eye doctor confirms it is safe to resume.
When should I see a doctor urgently rather than wait it out?
Seek prompt evaluation if you have significant eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or symptoms that worsen or do not improve within a few days.
Ready to see us?
Call the appointment desk, or book online — we will confirm your time by phone.
Sources consulted: AAO — What Is Pink Eye? Conjunctivitis, NHS — Conjunctivitis, Mayo Clinic — Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) . General medical information — not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Medically reviewed by Dr. Niranjana Bejan Singh.
← Treatments