Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” is inflammation of the clear layer that covers the white part of the eye and inside the eyelid. This layer protects your eyes and helps them stay moist. When it gets irritated, the eye’s blood vessels are more visible and mucus production increases. This is what causes the red, goopy eyes associated with pink eye.
It’s a common condition and not usually serious, but it can sometimes require a doctor visit.
What Causes Pink Eye?
“We usually think about pink eye occurring in children, but it can happen to people at any age and for many different reasons,” explains Junetta Bowen, DO, Carilion Clinic Family Medicine. Common causes include:
- Viruses or Bacteria: These are the most common culprits behind pink eye. They may come with a cold or other respiratory issues and are highly contagious.
- Allergies: Things like pollen, pet dander or dust can trigger pink eye.
- Chemical Irritants: Swimming pool chlorine, air pollution or even some beauty products can irritate your eyes.
- Foreign Objects: Getting something stuck in your eye—like dust or sand—can also cause pink eye.
Pink Eye Symptoms
The symptoms of pink eye can look different depending on what caused it. Common signs include:
- Red or pink eyes (one or both)
- Itchy or burning feeling
- Watery eyes
- Thick discharge (may feel goopy or crust over)
- Swollen eyelids
- Light sensitivity
- Gritty eyes or feeling like there’s something stuck in them
How is Pink Eye Treated?
How you treat pink eye depends on what’s causing it:
- Viral Pink Eye: This usually just needs to run its course (like a cold). Dr. Bowen suggests cool compresses and lubricating eye drops to help ease symptoms.
- Bacterial Pink Eye: This might need antibiotic eye drops or ointment to clear up. Your doctor can help determine the best course of treatment.
- Allergic Pink Eye: Over-the-counter eye drops that contain antihistamines can help, as well as avoiding your allergy triggers.
- Chemical or Irritant Pink Eye: If your eyes come in contact with an irritant, rinse them out with clean water or saline. If this doesn’t help, you need to see a doctor ASAP.
Tips to Avoid Pink Eye
Like many infections, the best way to avoid getting viral or bacterial pink eye is by washing your hands often. Other tips to lower your risk include:
- Don’t touch or rub your eyes
- Avoid sharing things like towels, pillows, makeup or contacts
- Keep your contacts clean and avoid wearing them if your eyes are irritated
- Disinfect surfaces regularly, especially if someone around you has pink eye
Once it’s cleared up, follow these steps to keep pink eye from coming back:
- Throw away and replace makeup you used while infected
- Wash sheets and towels with hot water and detergent
- Replace contact lenses, solutions and cases that you used while your eyes were infected
- Clean eyeglasses and cases that you used while infected
Reach out to your doctor if you have pink eye symptoms that are severe or don’t improve after a few days, or if you experience blurry vision.
