Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and eye surface. Symptoms can include watery, itchy eyes, sticky eye discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together, and light sensitivity.
Bacterial pink eye is often caused by exposure to the same bacteria that causes a staph infection or strep throat, according to the National Eye Institute.
Bacterial pink eye is highly contagious and is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops. It can spread to others as soon as symptoms appear, and it remains contagious for as long as symptoms remain, or for about 24 hours after starting a course of antibiotics.
The most common type of pink eye is viral pink eye. Antibiotics don’t work on this, so it usually just must run its course. Viral pink eye is sometimes accompanied by other symptoms, such as a cold or respiratory infection, and it is also highly contagious.
Symptoms of bacterial pink eye include:
Puss and mucus discharge
Ear infection
Pinkness or redness in the whites of the eyes
Treating pink eye mostly involves making your eyes feel better and making sure you don’t spread the disease. One short-term remedy involves gently cleaning around your eyes with a smooth wet cloth or cotton ball to sooth your eye. Or, lie down with a cold, wet cloth gently draped across your closed eyes.
Avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until your pink eye is gone in order to keep the makeup tools and lenses sterile. Also, do not share pillowcases, towels, or washcloths with others. If your pink eye doesn’t go away or start to feel better after a week, be sure to see your doctor.
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) generally remains contagious as long as your child has tearing and matted eyes. Pink eye is commonly caused by viruses or bacteria. Depending on the cause of your child’s pink eye, signs and symptoms usually improve within a few days to two weeks.
Good hygiene — including hand-washing, avoiding close contact with others, and not sharing towels or pillowcases — is important. It may be okay to return to school or child care if your child does not have a fever, can practice good hygiene, and can avoid close contact with others.
Children who are not able to practice good hygiene or can’t avoid close contact with others should stay home until symptoms clear up. Check with your health care provider if you have any questions about when your child can return to school or child care.