Conjunctivitis and sore eyes: what to know

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin surface covering the white of the eye and inner eyelid. Irritation can create a sandy or burning feeling, while watering may blur vision briefly. Viral, bacterial, allergic and irritant causes can look similar, so soreness alone does not identify the cause. A sore eye can also have another explanation, especially if pain is deep, vision changes, or light becomes difficult to tolerate.

A common presentation of conjunctivitis is a red eye with discharge or watering; soreness may affect one eye first and then the other, depending on the cause and exposure.

Gently clean away discharge with clean water and a fresh cotton pad, using a separate pad for each eye. Wash hands before and after touching the face, avoid rubbing, and do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics or eye drops. Pause contact lenses until the eyes feel normal and a clinician says they are suitable to use again. Cool compresses may soothe irritation; preservative-free lubricating drops can help some people. A GP consultation can clarify whether treatment is needed. Antibiotic treatment helps bacterial infection only and is not useful for every cause.

Arrange urgent medical assessment for significant eye pain, reduced or blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, marked light sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure, or a very swollen eyelid. Seek prompt advice if you wear contact lenses and have a painful red eye, because contact-lens-related infection needs careful assessment. A GP or eye professional should review symptoms that are worsening, persist, or keep returning.

Ask whether the pattern fits conjunctivitis, whether one cause is more likely from the examination, how long to avoid contact lenses, and which drops are appropriate. Mention pain, vision change, light sensitivity, discharge, allergies, recent illness, eye injury and anyone else at home with similar symptoms.