Understanding Pink Eye and Its Treatment
Learn about pink eye (conjunctivitis), including its symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options. Understand how to manage discomfort, prevent spreading, and promote quick recovery with proper care.
Introduction
Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition that causes redness, irritation, and sometimes discharge. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually not serious and often resolves on its own or with simple treatments. However, knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage it effectively and prevent its spread.
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye occurs when the conjunctiva—the thin, clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and lining the inside of the eyelids—becomes inflamed. This inflammation leads to redness, itching, and sometimes a sticky discharge.
Pink eye can affect one or both eyes and is categorized into three main types:
1. Viral Conjunctivitis: Caused by viruses (like the common cold or flu). Highly contagious but usually clears up on its own.
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria (such as staphylococcus or streptococcus). May require antibiotic eye drops.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Not contagious but can be seasonal or chronic.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
The symptoms may vary depending on the cause, but common signs include:
Redness in one or both eyes
Itching or burning sensation
Watery or thick discharge (clear, white, yellow, or green)
Gritty feeling (like something is stuck in the eye)
Swollen eyelids
Sensitivity to light
Viral pink eye often starts in one eye and spreads to the other, with watery discharge.
Bacterial pink eye may produce thicker, yellow or green discharge, sometimes causing eyelids to stick together.
Allergic pink eye usually affects both eyes, causing intense itching and watery discharge.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
What Causes Pink Eye?
Viruses (common cold, adenovirus)
Bacteria (staphylococcus, streptococcus)
Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
Irritants (smoke, chlorine in swimming pools, cosmetics)
How is Pink Eye Treated?
Treatment depends on the type of pink eye:
1. Viral Pink Eye
Usually resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks.
Cold compresses can reduce discomfort.
Artificial tears help with dryness.
Avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent spreading.
2. Bacterial Pink Eye
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be prescribed.
Symptoms improve within 2-5 days with treatment.
Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms disappear.
3. Allergic Pink Eye
Antihistamine eye drops or oral allergy medications help.
Cold compresses reduce swelling and itching.
Avoid allergens (keep windows closed during high pollen days, use air purifiers).
Home Care & Prevention Tips
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
Use a clean towel and pillowcase daily.
Do not share eye makeup, contact lenses, or towels.
Replace contact lenses as per schedule and avoid wearing them during infection.
Stay home if contagious (especially children) until symptoms improve.
When to See a Doctor?
While most cases of pink eye are mild, consult a doctor if you experience:
Severe pain or blurred vision
Increased sensitivity to light
Symptoms lasting more than a week
Worsening redness or swelling
A weakened immune system (e.g., diabetes, HIV)
If you suspect pink eye and need expert advice, you can book an online consultation with an eye specialist on Apollo 24|7 or schedule an in-person visit for a thorough check-up.
Conclusion
Pink eye is common and usually harmless, but proper care helps speed up recovery and prevents spreading. Whether it’s viral, bacterial, or allergic, knowing the right treatment and hygiene practices can make a big difference. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
Stay informed, take care of your eyes, and remember—healthy eyes lead to a clearer vision of life! Book an eye consultation now on Apollo 24|7!
Consult Top Eye Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr Rajesh Rastogi
Ophthalmologist
33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi
Dr. S Venkateswaran
Ophthalmologist
35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr. Padmini S
Ophthalmologist
4 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. V.chittibabu
Ophthalmologist
30 Years • MBBS, MS
Vellore
Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore
Consult Top Eye Surgeon
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr Rajesh Rastogi
Ophthalmologist
33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi
Dr. S Venkateswaran
Ophthalmologist
35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr. Padmini S
Ophthalmologist
4 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. V.chittibabu
Ophthalmologist
30 Years • MBBS, MS
Vellore
Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore
