Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane lining the inside of the eyelid and covering the white part of the eyeball. This inflammation makes small blood vessels more visible, giving the eye a reddish or pink appearance. It can affect one or both eyes.
It can be triggered by viral infections, bacterial infections, allergic reactions, or irritants like chemicals, foreign objects, or contact lens wear. While often minor and self-resolving, some forms of pink eye can be contagious, depending on the underlying cause.
Recognizing When Professional Care is Needed
While many cases of pink eye are mild and may resolve without specific medical intervention, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation to prevent complications. Severe eye pain, blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) require immediate medical attention. Intense redness, significant pus-like discharge, or swelling around the eye also indicate a need for a healthcare provider visit.
If symptoms worsen over a few days or do not show improvement with home care, seeking medical advice is important. Specific populations face a higher risk of complications and should always consult a doctor if they suspect pink eye. This includes newborns, who can develop a serious form of pink eye requiring immediate treatment to avoid vision damage. Individuals with weakened immune systems, due to other medical conditions or treatments, also need professional care. Contact lens wearers should stop using their lenses immediately upon noticing symptoms and consult an eye doctor, especially if symptoms don’t improve within 12 to 24 hours, as they are at risk for more serious eye infections.
Managing Symptoms at Home
For mild cases of pink eye, once professional care is ruled out, home strategies can alleviate discomfort. Applying compresses to the affected eye can provide relief. Warm, damp compresses are often soothing for bacterial and viral pink eye, helping to loosen dried mucus that may cause eyelids to stick together. Conversely, cool compresses can be more effective for allergic pink eye, reducing inflammation and itching. It is important to use a clean cloth for each application to prevent spreading the infection, especially if only one eye is affected.
Over-the-counter artificial tears moisturize eyes and reduce irritation and dryness, offering comfort regardless of the cause. For allergic conjunctivitis, avoiding the allergen and using over-the-counter allergy medications or antihistamine eye drops can help manage symptoms. Avoid using eye drops meant to reduce redness, as these can worsen symptoms or cause further irritation.
Avoid certain practices when managing pink eye. Do not rub your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and spread infection. If you wear contact lenses, discontinue use until your eyes have fully recovered, and discard disposable lenses and cases, as they may be contaminated.
Stopping the Spread of Infection
Viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious. Practicing meticulous hygiene is paramount to limit transmission. Frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is a primary defense, especially after touching eyes or applying eye drops. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching or rubbing eyes, even if they feel itchy, to prevent transferring infection to hands and other surfaces or individuals. Do not share personal items that come into contact with the eyes, including towels, washcloths, pillowcases, eye makeup, or contact lenses. Wash pillowcases, sheets, and towels frequently in hot water with detergent.
In instances of contagious pink eye, individuals might need to stay home from school or work until symptoms improve. For bacterial pink eye, contagiousness typically ends 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Viral pink eye can remain contagious for 10 to 14 days, or as long as symptoms persist.