What should you know about effects of pink eye?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin surface covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. One or both eyes may become red, gritty, watery or itchy. Sticky discharge can make the eyelids cling together, especially after sleep. Viral, bacterial and allergic forms can look similar but need different advice.

Mild blurring may come from tears or discharge and should clear when the surface is cleaned. Significant pain, marked light sensitivity or a change in sight needs a clinical assessment because these features can point to a problem deeper than uncomplicated conjunctivitis.

Wash hands before and after touching the eyes, avoid rubbing them, and use a clean warm compress to loosen crusting. Do not share towels, pillows, eye makeup or contact-lens equipment. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have settled and a clinician advises that they are safe to resume.

A GP consultation can help identify the likely cause. Antibiotic treatment may be considered for some bacterial infections, but it does not treat viral or allergic conjunctivitis. Use only drops recommended for you, and avoid using someone else’s eye medicine.

Seek urgent eye care for severe pain, strong light sensitivity, a sudden sight change, injury, a chemical splash, or swelling that makes the eye difficult to open. Arrange prompt assessment for a newborn with eye discharge, a weakened immune system, or symptoms that are worsening rather than settling.

Ask which type of conjunctivitis is most likely, how long you may be contagious, whether you should pause contact lenses, and which drops are appropriate for your symptoms.