Viral v bacterial conjunctivitis: what should you know?

Both types inflame the thin surface covering the eye and can cause redness, irritation, watering and crusting. Viral illness commonly affects both eyes over time and may occur with a cold. Bacterial illness can produce sticky or pus-like discharge that makes the eyelids cling together, especially after sleep. These patterns overlap, so discharge alone does not establish the cause. Explore conjunctivitis, eye discharge and red eye for symptom context.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye, avoid rubbing, and use a clean warm compress to loosen crusts. Do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics or eye drops. Stay home from close contact when discharge is heavy and follow local advice about returning to school or work. A GP consultation can assess the eye and decide whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate; antibiotics do not treat viral infections.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for significant eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision that does not clear after wiping, marked swelling, injury, or symptoms in a contact-lens wearer. Seek urgent care if vision changes suddenly or the eye becomes intensely painful. Light sensitivity can signal a problem deeper than uncomplicated conjunctivitis.

Ask whether the pattern suggests viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, whether both eyes are involved, how long you may be contagious, and whether any medicine is suitable. Mention contact-lens use, eye injury, pain, vision change and recent respiratory illness.