Eye condition · Everyday problems
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Pink eye makes the eye red, itchy or sticky. Learn how to tell viral, bacterial and allergic pink eye apart, how long it is contagious and when to see a doctor.
Get help the same day if you have
- Eye pain, strong light sensitivity or reduced vision
- A red eye while wearing contact lenses
- Pink eye in a newborn baby
- Symptoms that get worse after a few days, or a weakened immune system
Call an eye doctor now or go to an emergency department. Eye emergencies guide
What it is
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear layer covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. The blood vessels swell and the eye looks pink or red.
Types and how to tell them apart
| Type | Typical signs | Contagious? |
|---|---|---|
| Viral | Watery discharge, often starts in one eye and spreads, may come with a cold | Yes |
| Bacterial | Thick yellow or green discharge, crusted lids in the morning | Yes |
| Allergic | Very itchy, both eyes, watery, often with sneezing | No |
| Irritant | After smoke, chlorine or a chemical | No |
Treatment
- Viral: usually clears on its own in one to two weeks. Cool compresses and artificial tears ease symptoms
- Bacterial: often mild and self-limiting; antibiotic drops can shorten it
- Allergic: antihistamine or mast-cell stabilizer drops and avoiding triggers
- Chemical splash: rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes and get urgent care
Stop wearing contact lenses until the eye has fully cleared, and replace lenses and cases used during the infection.
Prevention
Wash your hands often, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, do not share towels, pillows, eye drops or makeup, and replace eye makeup after an infection.
When it is not pink eye
Some serious conditions also cause a red eye, including corneal infections (especially in contact lens wearers), uveitis and acute glaucoma. Pain, light sensitivity or blurred vision are warning signs that need same-day care.
Questions people ask
How long is pink eye contagious?
Viral pink eye is usually contagious while the eye is red and watery, often up to about two weeks. Bacterial pink eye is contagious until symptoms clear or about a day after antibiotics start. Allergic pink eye is not contagious.
Can I go to work or school with pink eye?
Rules vary. Many schools and workplaces allow return once discharge has cleared or after starting treatment. Wash hands often and do not share towels.