What to expect from a GP consultation for conjunctivitis

The GP may ask when redness, watering, discharge, itching or soreness began, whether one or both eyes are affected, and whether you use contact lenses. They may ask about recent colds, allergies, exposure to someone with an eye infection, and changes in vision. The examination can include looking at the eyelids and the surface of the eye, checking the pupils and asking you to describe any light sensitivity. Conjunctivitis can have infectious or allergic causes, so the findings help guide advice rather than automatically indicating that antibiotics are needed.

Take a list of eye drops, medicines and allergies, and mention contact-lens use before the examination. Note the colour and amount of any discharge and whether symptoms are worsening. Until you have advice, avoid sharing towels, pillows or eye makeup, wash your hands after touching your eyes, and use a clean compress for comfort. Do not wear contact lenses while the eye is irritated. Your GP may recommend lubricating drops, allergy treatment or another approach depending on the cause; use prescribed treatment exactly as directed.

Seek urgent medical assessment for significant eye pain, reduced or blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, marked light sensitivity, severe swelling, an eye injury or chemical exposure. Contact-lens wearers with a painful red eye need prompt assessment because corneal infections can threaten vision. If symptoms are mild but do not improve, recur frequently or affect a newborn, arrange a further clinical review.

Ask what cause is most consistent with the examination, whether you should stop contact lenses or work temporarily, how to clean discharge safely, and what changes should prompt another review. You can also ask when it is suitable to return to school, childcare or shared activities.