Pink eye types and how they differ

Viral conjunctivitis often causes watery discharge and may occur alongside a cold or sore throat. Bacterial conjunctivitis can produce thicker discharge and eyelids that stick together. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly causes intense itching, watering, and symptoms in both eyes after exposure to a trigger. Smoke, dust, chemicals, or a foreign body can irritate the surface without an infection. These patterns overlap, so eye discharge does not by itself prove that antibiotics are needed. Pink eye is a condition affecting the conjunctiva, the clear membrane over the white of the eye and inner eyelids.

Clean your hands often and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Remove discharge gently with clean water and a clean cloth, using a separate cloth for each eye. Do not share towels, cosmetics, or eye drops. Avoid contact lenses while the eye is irritated. Artificial tears or a cool compress may help with burning or itching; a pharmacist or GP can advise which option fits your symptoms. Antibiotic treatment is only useful when a bacterial cause is suspected.

Book a GP consultation if symptoms are persistent, recurrent, severe, or difficult to distinguish from another eye problem. Seek urgent care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, injury, chemical exposure, or swelling around the eye. Contact-lens users need prompt advice if pain, vision change, or marked redness develops.

Ask what cause best fits the discharge and itching, whether the condition is contagious, which drops are suitable, and when it is safe to return to contact lenses or work. Tell the clinician about allergies, medicines, recent illness, and any vision change.