Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Causes, Symptoms, and Care

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is a widespread eye condition that causes redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids.

Typical symptoms include:

• Red or pink appearance of the eye

• Watery or teary eyes

• Itchiness or irritation

• A sticky or crusty discharge that can collect on the eyelashes, especially after sleep

Conjunctivitis may begin in one eye but often spreads to the other eye within hours.

Common Causes of Conjunctivitis

The conjunctiva can become inflamed for several reasons:

• Infectious conjunctivitis
  Caused by viruses or bacteria and is highly contagious, particularly in schools, daycare centres, and households.

• Allergic conjunctivitis
  Triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould—common across many regions in Canada, especially during spring and fall.

• Irritant conjunctivitis
  Results from exposure to substances that irritate the eyes, such as shampoo, smoke, chlorinated pool water, or even a loose eyelash rubbing against the eye.

Management and Treatment

In most cases, conjunctivitis resolves on its own within one to two weeks, and treatment may not be required. Management depends on the underlying cause:

• Infectious conjunctivitis
  Severe bacterial cases may require prescription antibiotic eye drops, as determined by a doctor.

• Allergic conjunctivitis
  Typically managed with antihistamines or allergy eye drops, along with avoiding known triggers when possible.

• Irritant conjunctivitis
  Symptoms usually clear once the irritating substance is removed.

General care measures include:

• Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms have fully resolved

• Gently clean crusted or sticky discharge using clean cotton wool and water

• Wash hands frequently and avoid touching the eyes

• Do not share towels, pillows, or eye cosmetics to reduce spread

Possible Complications

Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and self-limiting, but complications—though uncommon—can occur:

• Severe allergic conjunctivitis may cause scarring of eye tissues

• In rare infectious cases, bacteria may spread and lead to more serious secondary infections

Seek medical assessment if symptoms worsen, vision changes occur, or pain becomes significant.

Educational Notice

This information is provided for general education and awareness only and does not replace medical advice. Eye infections and irritations should be assessed by a healthcare professional when symptoms are severe, persistent, or unclear. Understanding how to recognize infections, prevent spread, and provide basic care is commonly taught in first aid and workplace safety education.