Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is a common eye condition that causes redness, irritation, swelling, and discharge in the eyes. It can affect people of all ages and is often contagious, depending on the cause. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and reduce discomfort.
If you or a loved one is experiencing eye redness, itching, excessive tearing, or a sticky discharge, you may have conjunctivitis. Learn about the causes, symptoms, types, and best treatment options—and find the best eye doctor near you for quick relief.
What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids. This inflammation leads to red, irritated, and sometimes painful eyes. Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or irritants.
Depending on the cause, conjunctivitis can be highly contagious or non-contagious. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Types of Conjunctivitis
1. Viral Conjunctivitis (Highly Contagious)
✔ Caused by: Viruses like adenovirus, herpes simplex virus (HSV), or other respiratory viruses.
✔ Symptoms: Redness, watery discharge, itching, light sensitivity. Usually affects both eyes.
✔ Spread by: Airborne droplets, direct contact with an infected person, or contaminated objects (towels, eye drops).
✔ Treatment: No specific cure—symptoms improve within 1-2 weeks. Use cold compresses, artificial tears, and antiviral eye drops (if caused by HSV).
2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Highly Contagious)
✔ Caused by: Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae.
✔ Symptoms: Thick yellow or green discharge, eye redness, swelling, pain, and eyelids stuck together in the morning.
✔ Spread by: Direct contact, contaminated hands, shared towels, or makeup products.
✔ Treatment: Antibiotic eye drops or ointments prescribed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Symptoms improve within 2-5 days.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis (Non-Contagious)
✔ Caused by: Allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, mold, or smoke.
✔ Symptoms: Red, watery, and itchy eyes with swelling. Often accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose.
✔ Spread by: Not contagious—triggered by exposure to allergens.
✔ Treatment: Antihistamine eye drops, artificial tears, and avoiding allergens.
4. Irritant Conjunctivitis (Non-Contagious)
✔ Caused by: Exposure to smoke, chemicals, chlorine in swimming pools, or air pollution.
✔ Symptoms: Red, watery, burning sensation in the eyes.
✔ Spread by: Not contagious—caused by irritants.
✔ Treatment: Flushing the eyes with clean water, lubricating eye drops, and avoiding exposure to irritants.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
If you experience any of the following symptoms of conjunctivitis, consult an eye specialist near you:
✔ Redness in one or both eyes
✔ Excessive tearing or watery discharge
✔ Itchy or burning sensation
✔ Thick yellow, green, or white discharge
✔ Eyelids sticking together upon waking up
✔ Swollen or puffy eyelids
✔ Blurry vision or light sensitivity
Some cases of conjunctivitis can be severe, especially if caused by bacterial infections or underlying eye diseases. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe eye pain, vision loss, or extreme sensitivity to light.
How is Conjunctivitis Diagnosed?
An eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist) can diagnose conjunctivitis through a comprehensive eye exam, including:
✔ Slit Lamp Examination: Examines the eye’s surface and identifies inflammation.
✔ Eye Swab Culture (if needed): Determines if the infection is bacterial, viral, or fungal.
✔ Allergy Test (for allergic conjunctivitis): Identifies allergens triggering symptoms.
Once diagnosed, the doctor will recommend the best treatment plan based on the type of conjunctivitis.
Best Treatment Options for Conjunctivitis
1. Home Remedies for Mild Cases
✔ Use cold compresses for viral or allergic conjunctivitis.
✔ Use warm compresses for bacterial conjunctivitis to reduce discharge.
✔ Apply artificial tears to soothe irritation.
✔ Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent further infection.
2. Medical Treatment for Conjunctivitis
🔹 Viral Conjunctivitis Treatment
✔ No antibiotics are needed. The infection clears up on its own in 1-2 weeks.
✔ Lubricating eye drops help soothe irritation.
✔ Antiviral eye drops are prescribed if caused by herpes virus.
🔹 Bacterial Conjunctivitis Treatment
✔ Antibiotic eye drops or ointments (e.g., Moxifloxacin, Tobramycin) speed up recovery.
✔ Avoid sharing towels, makeup, or contact lenses to prevent spread.
🔹 Allergic Conjunctivitis Treatment
✔ Antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops (e.g., Olopatadine, Ketotifen).
✔ Avoid allergens and use preservative-free lubricating drops.
🔹 Irritant Conjunctivitis Treatment
✔ Flush the eyes with clean water.
✔ Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, or harsh chemicals.
How to Prevent Conjunctivitis?
✔ Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.
✔ Disinfect glasses, pillowcases, and makeup brushes regularly.
✔ Do not share eye drops, towels, or contact lenses.
✔ Avoid wearing contact lenses while experiencing conjunctivitis.
✔ Use protective eyewear if working in dusty or chemical environments.
Cost of Conjunctivitis Treatment at Infinite Vision Care and Laser Centre
The cost of conjunctivitis treatment varies based on diagnosis and medication:
Most cases of conjunctivitis resolve within a week with the right treatment. Seek medical help immediately if symptoms worsen.
Where to Get the Best Conjunctivitis Treatment?
Looking for a trusted eye doctor near you? Visit:
✔ Top eye hospitals & clinics for expert diagnosis.
✔ Online doctor consultations for quick medical advice.
✔ Pharmacies & online stores for prescription eye drops.
Book an Eye Consultation Today!
Don’t let eye redness, irritation, or discharge affect your daily life. Get fast relief from conjunctivitis with expert care.
📅 Schedule an appointment with Infinite Vision Care and Laser Centre today!
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