Not every red eye needs the same treatment
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin tissue covering the white of the eye and inner eyelid. Viruses, bacteria and allergens are common causes, but contact lens problems, chemicals and other eye conditions can also produce redness or irritation.
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis is not. Antibiotic drops do not help viral conjunctivitis, so an examination may be important when the cause is uncertain, symptoms are significant or contact lenses are involved.
Viral conjunctivitis
Viral pink eye is often watery and may occur with cold-like symptoms. Antibiotics do not treat a viral infection, and some cases can remain contagious while symptoms are present.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis may produce thicker discharge. Some mild cases improve without antibiotics, while other cases need prescription treatment based on the examination and risk factors.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis commonly causes itching and watering in both eyes. It is not contagious, and management focuses on the allergen and appropriate allergy treatment.
Contact lenses change the risk
A contact lens wearer with a red, painful or light-sensitive eye needs prompt evaluation because a corneal infection can be more serious than routine conjunctivitis.
Reduce the chance of spreading infection
Wash hands frequently, avoid rubbing the eyes, do not share towels or cosmetics and follow professional guidance about replacing or disinfecting contact-lens supplies.
At a glance
- Wash your hands before and after touching the eye area
- Do not share towels, cosmetics, drops or contact-lens supplies
- Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have resolved or your eye doctor approves
- Use a clean cool compress for comfort when appropriate
- Do not use leftover or another person's prescription eye drops
- Seek prompt evaluation for pain, light sensitivity, intense redness or vision changes
Good questions deserve clear answers.
Is every case of pink eye contagious?
No. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be contagious, while allergic conjunctivitis is not. Redness can also come from irritation, contact lenses or another eye condition.
Do antibiotics cure pink eye?
Antibiotics can be appropriate for some bacterial cases, but they do not treat viral conjunctivitis. Treatment should match the cause rather than the color of the eye alone.
Can I wear contact lenses with pink-eye symptoms?
No. Remove your lenses and do not resume wear until symptoms have resolved or your eye doctor says it is safe. Seek prompt guidance for pain, light sensitivity or vision changes.
When should a red eye be evaluated promptly?
Prompt evaluation is important for eye pain, light sensitivity, intense redness, blurred vision that remains after wiping away discharge, worsening symptoms, a weakened immune system or contact lens wear.