Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye, causing redness, watering and discharge. It's often caused by infection or allergy.

EyesInfectionLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Red or pink eyes, watering, gritty feeling, sticky discharge, itching and crusty eyelids in the morning.

Common Treatments

Usually clears on its own. Clean the eyes; antibiotic drops for some bacterial cases; antihistamine drops for allergy.

Risk Factors

Close contact with someone with conjunctivitis, allergies, contact lens use and touching the eyes with unwashed hands.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria or allergies. Infectious conjunctivitis spreads easily, and outbreaks are common in India during the monsoon.

Most cases clear within one to two weeks without serious problems. Eye pain, sensitivity to light or changes in vision are not typical and need prompt medical attention.

Symptoms

Red eyes

One or both eyes look pink or red.

Watering or discharge

Watery discharge with viral, sticky yellow with bacterial infection.

Itching

Especially with allergic conjunctivitis.

Warning signs

Eye pain, blurred vision or light sensitivity need urgent care.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by viruses (most common), bacteria, or allergens such as pollen and dust.

Key Risk Factors

  • Close contact Infections spread through hands, towels and shared items.
  • Allergies Hay fever and dust allergy.
  • Contact lenses Raise the risk of infection; stop wearing them until it clears.

Management & Treatment

01. Eye hygiene

Gently clean the eyelids with cooled boiled water and a clean cloth or cotton.

02. Medicines

Antibiotic drops if a doctor thinks it's bacterial; antihistamine drops for allergy.

03. Prevent spread

Wash hands often, don't touch your eyes and don't share towels or eye make-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use steroid eye drops?
Not unless an eye doctor prescribes them. They can make some infections much worse.
When can children return to school?
Usually once the discharge has stopped; follow your school's advice.
Do I need antibiotics?
Most viral and allergic cases don't need antibiotics.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.