What should you know about clear eyes for pink eye?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin covering over the white of the eye and inner eyelids. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria, allergy, or irritation. Watering, a gritty feeling, burning, or mild discomfort may occur before the eye looks clearly red. Allergic symptoms commonly include itch and affect both eyes, while an infectious form may begin in one eye and spread to the other. Clear tears are less suggestive of thick bacterial discharge, but appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

Wash hands often, avoid rubbing the eyes, and do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics, or eye drops. Clean any fluid with a fresh damp cloth and dispose of used tissues. Stop contact lenses and eye makeup until symptoms have settled and a clinician says they can be resumed. Cool compresses may ease irritation. Antibiotics do not treat viral or allergic conjunctivitis, so do not use leftover medicine; a GP consultation can help decide whether treatment is needed.

Seek urgent eye care for significant pain, reduced vision, marked light sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure, or severe swelling. Contact-lens wearers with pain, redness, or discharge need prompt assessment because corneal infection is a concern. Arrange a GP review if symptoms worsen, fail to improve, keep returning, or include heavy discharge or fever.

Could this be viral, bacterial, allergic, or simple irritation? Should I stay away from work, school, or shared towels? Do I need antibiotic treatment, and what symptoms would require an eye review?