Pink eye is extremely common.
Pink eye is often highly contagious.
It can be caused by
Viruses (very contagious)
Bacteria (very contagious)
Allergens, like pollen (not contagious)
Irritants, like smoke or dust (not contagious)
Symptoms usually include:
Redness or swelling
Watery eyes
A gritty feel
Itchiness, irritation, or burning
Discharge
Crusting of the eyelids or lashes
Help protect yourself from getting and spreading Pink Eye
See a doctor if you have pink eye along with any of the following:
Eye pain
Sensitivity to light or blurred vision
Intense eye redness
Symptoms that get worse or don’t improve
A weakened immune system, for example from HIV or cancer treatment
Pre-existing eye conditions
A doctor can usually diagnose the cause of pink eye based on symptoms and patient history.
Newborns with symptoms of pink eye should see a doctor right away.
Protect yourself and others from pink eye (Help protect yourself from getting and spreading Pink Eye)
Wash your hands often with soap and water, and help young children do the same. Wash hands especially well after touching someone with pink eye or their personal items.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. This can worsen the condition or spread it to your other eye.
Avoid sharing personal items, such as makeup, eye drops, towels, bedding, contact lenses and containers, and eyeglasses.
Do not use the same eye products for your infected and non-infected eyes.
Stop wearing contact lenses until your eye doctor says it’s okay.
Clean, store, and replace your contact lenses as instructed by your eye doctor.