Pink Eye - what you need to know

If you or your child wakes up one morning with red, swollen eyes and the eyelids stuck together with a sticky discharge, this is most likely due to pink eye (conjunctivitis). Pink eye is caused by swelling or inflammation of the thin layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.

What causes pink eye?

Pink eye is generally caused by a virus, bacteria, or allergies. Viral and bacterial pink eye can be easily passed from one person to another through contact with body fluids, usually by touching your eye with your hands. Bacteria can also be transferred to your eyes from your nose or sinuses, and from contaminated eye make-up or contact lenses.

Allergic pink eye is caused by pollen, animal dander, cigarette smoke, pool chlorine, or air pollution and cannot be spread to other people.

What are the symptoms of pink eye?

Pink eye causes one or both of your eyes to be red and uncomfortable.

• Viruses usually produce symptoms of burning, red eyes with a watery discharge.
• Bacteria usually produce symptoms of sore, red eyes with a lot of sticky pus in the eye; however, some infections may cause little or no discharge.
• Allergic reactions make the eyes very itchy, red, and watery, and the eyelids may get puffy.

How should you treat pink eye?

Most pink eye infections will go away in a week or two, but if caused by an allergic reaction, they will not go away until the allergy source is eliminated. For relief of all types of pink eye, you can place a warm, damp washcloth over your eye(s) for a few minutes several times a day. Be sure to use a clean washcloth each time and one for each eye so that you don't spread the infection.

Do not wear contact lenses if you have pink eye. Use a new pair after you recover.

Do not use eye makeup while your eyes are infected -- replace any used cosmetics as they may contain bacteria.

To reduce the discomfort of bacterial or viral pink eye, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

You should call a doctor about pink eye symptoms if you have:

• pain or are having trouble seeing
• sensitivity to light
• symptoms for a week or more or your symptoms are getting worse
• a lot of pus or mucus, or
• other symptoms of an infection, such as fever or body aches.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment if you have pink eye caused by bacteria. Antibiotic eye medications will not work for pink eye caused by viruses or allergic reactions. If you have allergic pink eye, your doctor or pharmacist may recommend taking allergy medications and certain eye drops to reduce the swelling and itching.

For tips on using eye medications, see https://www.safemedication.com/how-to-use-medication/eye-drops and https://www.safemedication.com/how-to-use-medication/eye-gels.

Related questions

• Can you take Ibuprofen if you have COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
• Naproxen vs ibuprofen: What's the difference?
• Can you take ibuprofen on an empty stomach?

How do I prevent the spread of pink eye to other family members or friends?

Good hygiene is the best way to prevent the spread of pink eye. Wash your hands often and avoid hand-to-eye contact. Do not share household items that touch your eyes, such towels, bedding, or pillows with other family members. Do not share eye cosmetics.

Summary

Pink eye is a common condition that can usually be treated at home. Good hygiene can help prevent getting pink eye and passing it along to others.