What is the medical term for pink eye?

Conjunctivitis can make the white of the eye look red and may cause watering, irritation, itching, or sticky discharge. It can follow a viral or bacterial infection, an allergy, or irritation from smoke, dust, or another substance. The same appearance can occur with other eye problems, so the name alone does not identify the cause.

Avoid rubbing your eyes and wash your hands after touching your face. Do not share towels, pillows, eye makeup, or contact-lens equipment while an infection is possible.

Gently clean crusting with clean water and a fresh cotton pad or cloth for each eye. A cool compress may ease itching and a warm compress may loosen dried discharge. Stop wearing contact lenses until the eye has recovered, and replace disposable lenses or eye products used during the episode when advised.

Treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotics do not treat viral or allergic conjunctivitis, so use them only after a clinician recommends them. A GP Consultation can help distinguish conjunctivitis from another source of eye redness.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for significant eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, marked Light Sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure, or swelling around the eye. Contact-lens wearers should seek advice promptly for a red or painful eye because corneal infections need timely care.

Ask what is most likely causing the redness, whether you should pause contact lenses, how to clean discharge safely, and which symptoms would require urgent review.