What should you know about red eye infection treatment?

Redness and discharge can arise from viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, but the appearance alone cannot reliably separate them. Some cases improve with supportive care, while a clinician may prescribe an antimicrobial drop or ointment when bacterial infection is suspected. Severe pain, vision change or corneal involvement points to a different level of care. Read more about [Conjunctivitis](/conditions/conjunctivitis/).

Allergy is treated differently: itching, watery eyes and a clear trigger may fit [Allergic Conjunctivitis](/conditions/allergic-conjunctivitis/), where avoiding triggers and allergy-directed treatment are more relevant than antibiotics. The [Red Eye](/symptoms/red-eye/) guide covers other causes.

Clean crusting with clean water and a fresh pad, wash hands before and after eye care, and avoid rubbing. Use a cool compress for irritation. Remove contact lenses and discard disposable lenses or eye makeup used during the episode; ask an optometrist when reusable lenses and their case can be used again. Use only medicine prescribed or recommended for this episode, follow the label, and do not share drops.

Seek urgent assessment for eye pain, blurred or reduced vision, strong light sensitivity, a visible spot on the cornea, injury, chemical exposure or pronounced swelling. Contact-lens wearers with redness or pain should be assessed promptly because the cornea can be affected. Arrange review when symptoms worsen, discharge persists or the diagnosis is uncertain.

Ask what cause is most likely, whether medicine is needed, how to apply it without touching the bottle tip to the eye, and when normal lens use is safe. Also ask how to recognise treatment failure and whether household contacts need advice.