Symptoms of viral pink eye

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the thin surface covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. Viral infection often produces redness, watering, a sandy feeling and watery or slightly sticky eye discharge. It may occur with cold symptoms and can move from one eye to the other. It spreads readily through contaminated hands, towels and surfaces.

Symptoms overlap with allergy, bacterial infection, a foreign body and deeper eye problems. Thick discharge alone cannot establish the cause, and significant pain or light sensitivity needs more careful assessment.

Wash hands often, avoid rubbing the eyes, and do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics or eye drops. Clean crusts with clean water and a fresh pad for each eye. Pause contact lenses until the eye is fully comfortable and a clinician says they are safe to use. Lubricating drops or a cool compress may ease irritation. Antibiotics do not help a viral infection unless another diagnosis is found.

Seek urgent eye care for severe pain, marked light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, injury, chemical exposure, or a contact-lens-related red eye. Arrange a GP consultation if discharge is heavy, symptoms are worsening, or the diagnosis is uncertain. Get prompt advice for a newborn or for someone with reduced immunity.

Ask whether the pattern fits viral conjunctivitis, whether contact lenses should be examined, and how to clean the eye safely. Ask which changes suggest a corneal problem and whether any prescribed treatment is aimed at a different cause.