Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Causes, Care and Prevention Tips

5 min read · Conditions · By the Asthra Health Care team

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear, thin layer that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. When it becomes inflamed, the small blood vessels swell and the eye looks pink or red. It is commonly called pink eye or "eye flu" in India.

Outbreaks are common during the monsoon and humid months, when viruses spread quickly in schools, offices and crowded places. It can affect one eye first and then spread to the other. Although it is uncomfortable and spreads easily, it rarely causes lasting harm to vision when handled properly.

Types and their causes

Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type. It often comes with a cold and causes watery discharge. Bacterial conjunctivitis causes thicker yellow or green sticky discharge that may glue the eyelids together in the morning. Both types spread easily through hands, towels, pillow covers and shared eye drops or make-up.

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by dust, pollen, pet hair or other allergens. It causes intense itching and watering in both eyes and does not spread to others. Eyes can also become red from irritants such as smoke, chlorine in swimming pools or chemicals.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis

Symptoms usually start a day or two after contact with an infected person. Most symptoms are uncomfortable but do not affect vision. Blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, strong eye pain or sensitivity to bright light are not typical of simple conjunctivitis and need an eye doctor.

• Redness in the white of the eye
• Watery or sticky discharge
• Gritty feeling, as if sand is in the eye
• Itching or burning
• Swollen eyelids and crusting in the morning

How conjunctivitis is diagnosed

A doctor can usually diagnose conjunctivitis by looking at the eyes and asking about symptoms. Tests are rarely needed. If the infection is severe, keeps returning, or occurs in a newborn, the doctor may take a swab of the discharge for testing. An eye specialist may examine the eye with a special light to rule out problems of the cornea or inner eye.

Some serious eye conditions, such as a corneal ulcer, inflammation inside the eye (uveitis) or a sudden rise in eye pressure (acute glaucoma), can also cause a red eye. These usually come with pain, blurred vision or light sensitivity, which is why these symptoms need an eye doctor the same day.

Care and treatment

Gently clean discharge from the eyelids with cotton wool dipped in clean boiled and cooled water, using a fresh piece for each eye. A cool, clean cloth over closed eyes can ease discomfort. Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) may soothe the eyes; follow the label or your pharmacist's advice. Stop wearing contact lenses until the eyes are fully better.

Viral conjunctivitis usually improves on its own in one to two weeks. Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may help bacterial conjunctivitis and are used only on a doctor's prescription. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with anti-allergy eye drops. Never use leftover drops, and never use drops containing steroids unless prescribed by an eye doctor, as they can seriously harm the eye.

Babies, children and contact lens users

Any redness or discharge in a newborn's eyes needs a doctor promptly, as some infections can damage the baby's eyes. Children with infectious conjunctivitis should stay home from school while the eyes are very red and watery. Contact lens users with a painful red eye should see an eye doctor the same day, as lens-related infections can be serious.

Preventing spread and when to see a doctor

Wash hands often with soap, especially after touching the eyes. Do not rub your eyes. Do not share towels, pillows, eye drops, kajal or eye make-up. Throw away eye make-up used during the infection. Wear dark glasses if light is uncomfortable, but they do not stop spread. Change pillow covers and towels often and wash them in hot water with soap.

See a doctor if symptoms do not improve within a week, or at once if you notice any warning sign below. Do not buy eye drops without advice, as many contain steroids or antibiotics. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on safe eye drops.

This article is general health information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or combine medicines on your own — always follow your doctor's prescription and ask your pharmacist if unsure.