Conjunctivitis, or ‘pink eye’, is an inflammation of the thin, transparent layer of tissue that lines the eyelid and eyeball (the conjunctiva). Conjunctival tissue lubricates the eye with mucous, a key part of the eye’s tear film, and protects the eye from minor irritants like dust particles, pollen, or other allergens.

Sometimes though, these allergens can overwhelm the conjunctiva itself, resulting in a pink eye. The condition is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, or by an allergic reaction, which causes the blood vessels in the membrane to swell and become irritated. This causes the white part of the eyeball to become reddish or pink in color. In most cases, conjunctivitis is self-limiting; no medication is needed to treat it.

Conjunctivitis is usually caused due to:

• A bacterial infection
• A viral infection
• Allergies
• Irritants like chemicals or dust entering the eyes

The common symptoms for conjunctivitis include:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Itching
• A feeling that there’s something in the eyes
• A discharge that forms a crust during the night, which can prevent the eyes from opening in the morning
• Excessive tears
• Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

Conjunctivitis usually goes away on its own within a week or two. See your doctor promptly if you notice any of the following:

• Sudden change in vision
• Your eyes start hurting
• You become very sensitive to light

• Viral conjunctivitis requires no treatment, and your body will fight the virus on its own. If you are in discomfort due to the itchiness or dryness, lubricating them with artificial tears may help in the meantime.
• Bacterial or fungal conjunctivitis needs to be treated by your eye doctor or ophthalmologist, based on the severity of your symptoms. Only an ophthalmologist can diagnose if your infection is viral or bacterial. If you wake up with a white sticky discharge around your eyes, do visit a doctor.
• Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated by your doctor to address any puffiness and itchiness. Your eye doctor may prescribe specific eye drops or ointments to help you heal, but you must only use them under prescription, strictly for the prescribed time.

Here’s how you can relieve symptoms and prevent infection for others:

• Avoid going outdoors or contact with other people if you have a pink eye.
• Use a clean tissue each time you wipe your eyes or face. Do not touch your eyes with unclean hands.
• Gently wipe the discharge from your eyes, starting from the corner near the nose to the other end.
• Clean your eyes with a clean cotton wool pad soaked in warm water multiple times throughout the day.
• Be mindful to wash your hands before or after meals, bathroom visits, and after sneezing or coughing.
• Do not wear any contact lenses until the condition goes away. You must later clean or replace them based on your ophthalmologist’s recommendation.
• Avoid using eye makeup completely and do not share it with anyone. Make sure to replace it after recovery.