Early signs of conjunctivitis

The clear surface over the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids becomes irritated or inflamed. One eye may start first and the other may become affected later. Viral irritation can produce watering and a burning sensation, while bacterial infection may produce thicker discharge. Allergy can cause itching and usually affects both eyes. These patterns overlap, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause. Pain, reduced vision or strong light sensitivity are less typical and should not be dismissed as simple conjunctivitis.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye, avoid rubbing, and gently clean discharge with fresh cotton or a clean damp cloth. Do not share towels, pillows, eye drops or cosmetics. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have settled and an eye professional says it is safe to restart. A GP Consultation can help distinguish infection from allergy or another eye problem. Antibiotic Treatment is not useful for every cause.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for significant eye pain, blurred or reduced vision, marked Light Sensitivity, swelling around the eye, injury, or symptoms in a newborn. Seek urgent help if the eye becomes very painful or vision changes suddenly. People who wear contact lenses should seek advice sooner because corneal infections can need rapid treatment. If redness or discharge is worsening, or does not begin to improve, arrange a GP review.

Ask what may be causing the redness, whether you should stay away from school or work, how to clean the eye safely, and when contact lenses can be used again.