Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of your eye and lines the inside of your eyelids.
When this tissue becomes inflamed, the tiny blood vessels become more visible, giving the eye its characteristic pink or red appearance—hence the nickname pink eye.
Conjunctivitis can affect one eye or both and may range from mild irritation to more uncomfortable symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Common Symptoms of Pink Eye
Although symptoms vary depending on the cause, common signs of conjunctivitis include:
- Red or pink eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Watery eyes
- Thick yellow, green, or white discharge
- Crusting around the eyelids, especially after sleeping
- Swollen eyelids
- Feeling like something is stuck in your eye
- Increased tearing
- Light sensitivity
If you experience severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, or extreme sensitivity to light, seek immediate evaluation, as these symptoms may indicate a more serious eye condition.
Types of Conjunctivitis
Not all pink eye is contagious. Identifying the cause is one of the most important parts of treatment.
Viral Conjunctivitis
This is the most common type of pink eye and is often associated with the common cold or upper respiratory infections.
Symptoms typically include:
- Watery discharge
- Redness
- Irritation
- Swollen lymph nodes near the ears
Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and usually resolves on its own over one to two weeks. Supportive care, such as artificial tears and cool compresses, may help relieve discomfort.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial pink eye often produces:
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- Eyelids sticking together
- Redness
- Swelling
Because bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be recommended after an eye examination.
Early diagnosis can help shorten the course of the infection and reduce the risk of spreading it to others.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Unlike viral or bacterial infections, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
It occurs when the eyes react to allergens such as:
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust mites
- Mold
Symptoms usually include:
- Intense itching
- Watery eyes
- Redness
- Puffy eyelids
- Sneezing and nasal congestion
Managing allergies and using appropriate allergy eye drops can provide significant relief.
Irritant Conjunctivitis
Sometimes pink eye develops after exposure to irritants such as:
Smoke
Chlorine
Air pollution
Chemicals
Foreign objects
Treatment typically involves flushing the eye and avoiding further exposure while allowing the eye to heal.
