Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition. Around six million Americans develop pink eye each year, and it is one of the most common complaints seen by primary care providers and eye doctors, accounting for one-third of all eye-related visits. 

The conjunctiva is a thin, clear layer of tissue that covers and protects the whites of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva becomes inflamed and irritated, causing the whites of your eyes to appear pink or red, hence the common term “pink eye.” Other common symptoms include itching, swelling, and abnormal discharge from one or both eyes. 

Conjunctivitis can have many causes, but it is commonly associated with an infection or irritant that comes into contact with the eye. The three main types of conjunctivitis are viral, bacterial, and allergic. Some types of pink eye are contagious and need prescription treatment, while others may resolve on their own or improve with supportive care to manage symptoms. Recognizing the symptoms and potential causes of pink eye can help to guide the appropriate treatment. 

Different Types of Pink Eye Need Different Treatments

Pink eye can typically be treated with eye drops. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops are available, and each type of drop uses a different medication to target the suspected underlying cause. 

Although different types of pink eye can cause similar symptoms, such as redness and eye discomfort, these eye conditions require an accurate diagnosis to ensure the appropriate treatment is used. 

The table below outlines the common causes, symptoms, and treatments for each type of pink eye:

Type Common Causes Common Symptoms Common Treatments
Bacterial pink eye (bacterial conjunctivitis) Bacterial infection Thick, yellow or green eye discharge; usually starts in one eye and can spread to the other; discharge can cause the eye to become matted shut Prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment
Viral pink eye (viral conjunctivitis) Viral infections (such as the common cold or flu) Clear, stringy discharge; usually starts in one eye and can spread to the other Artificial tears to relieve discomfort; antiviral medication for severe cases (rare)
Allergic pink eye (allergic conjunctivitis) Allergens that irritate the eye (pollen, dust, dander, chemicals) Clear watery discharge with severe eye itching; usually affects both eyes at the same time Antihistamine/mast cell stabilizer eye drops; prescription anti-inflammatory drops (in some cases)

Not all types of pink eye require antibiotic eye drops. Consulting a medical provider for an accurate diagnosis can help guide the correct treatment and avoid complications. 

Bacterial Pink Eye (Bacterial Conjunctivitis)

Bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious and requires prompt attention.

Bacterial pink eye (bacterial conjunctivitis) is caused when harmful bacteria get into the eye, causing an infection. This may cause more noticeable symptoms than other types of pink eye, including large amounts of thick, green or yellow discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together. 

Bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious, and is typically contracted and spread by touching your eye after you’ve unknowingly touched an infected person or surface. It may develop in one eye before spreading to the other. Anyone can get this type of pink eye, but it’s far more common in children than adults.

Although bacterial conjunctivitis can cause unpleasant symptoms, it is treatable, and symptoms typically resolve within 10 days with treatment. Because this type of pink eye is caused by bacteria, prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be used to treat the injection, reduce the risk of spread, and relieve symptoms. Recognizing the symptoms that distinguish bacterial conjunctivitis from other types of pink eye can help you get an accurate diagnosis and the proper treatment. 

Prescription Eye Drops To Treat Bacterial Pink Eye

Topical prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments are commonly used to treat bacterial pink eye and may shorten the duration of symptoms and contagiousness, but antibiotics are not always necessary. Some mild cases of bacterial pink eye can resolve on their own within 7–10 days. 

Most moderate to severe cases generally require antibiotic eye medication to help clear the infection and prevent complications. Antibiotic treatment is also recommended for those with weakened immune systems, people who wear contact lenses, or anyone experiencing a prolonged or more severe infection.

While most cases of bacterial pink eye resolve without any issues, the infection can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated or lead to complications such as eye damage. Typical antibiotic treatment lasts for 5–7 days, depending on the severity of infection. Completing your full course of antibiotics is important to ensure the infection is fully treated. 

There are different types of antibiotic eye drops and ointments available as effective treatment options for pink eye. Eye drops are liquid placed into the lower eyelid pocket, where ointments are thicker medications applied as a thin ribbon in the same area. 

Examples of prescription eye drops that may be used for bacterial pink eye include: 

Examples of prescription eye ointments that may be used for bacterial pink eye include: 

For those who wear contact lenses, the following may be preferred:

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Diagnosis And At-Home Care

Bacterial pink eye is typically diagnosed during a physical exam and does not always require testing. Your doctor may order a bacterial culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection if it is severe or hasn’t responded to treatment. If an infection spreads to other parts of the body, the treatment plan may include a prescription oral antibiotic.

There are also at-home treatments you can use in addition to antibiotic treatment to help alleviate symptoms. For example, placing a warm or cold compress over your eyes can help prevent uncomfortable discharge-related crusting, and artificial tears or saline drops can help with any dryness of the eyes. However, if using artificial tears or other drops, wait at least 15 minutes after applying your prescription eye drops to help ensure they are properly absorbed.

Viral Pink Eye (Viral Conjunctivitis)

Viral pink eye is commonly caused by viruses associated with upper respiratory infections.

Viral infections can also cause pink eye. In fact, viral conjunctivitis is the most common type of pink eye, accounting for up to 80% of cases. Viral and bacterial pink eye can cause similar symptoms, but there are important differences between the two. 

Viral pink eye is commonly caused by viruses associated with upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold or the flu. The virus can spread to the eyes through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread if you touch a contaminated surface and then rub your eyes. 

Viral pink eye often occurs alongside cold or respiratory symptoms. It typically starts in one eye and may spread to the other, causing redness and irritation with thin, clear, or stringy discharge rather than the thick, yellow or green discharge often associated with bacterial pink eye. Viral pink eye is also contagious and can easily spread, but antibiotics do not treat it. Knowing how viral pink eye differs from bacterial pink eye can help you understand the potential cause of your symptoms and avoid unnecessary antibiotic treatment. 

Artificial Tears To Treat Viral Pink Eye

Many people think viral pink eye requires antibiotic eye drops, as viral and bacterial pink eye can cause similar symptoms. However, antibiotics do not treat viral infections because they work against bacteria, not viruses. Using antibiotics when they are not needed can lead to further eye irritation and can contribute to antibiotic resistance, so getting an appropriate diagnosis is important. 

The good news is that most cases of viral pink eye are mild and resolve on their own within two weeks. Although there is no specific treatment for most cases of viral conjunctivitis, supportive care can help alleviate symptoms while your immune system works to clear the infection. 

Artificial tears are eye drops that can help relieve discomfort if your eyes feel dry or scratchy. These drops are available OTC and can be used as directed to lubricate the eye and soothe irritation. Other comfort measures can include placing a cold compress over your eyes to help with swelling and discharge. These measures are usually sufficient, but ask your doctor about prescription-strength artificial tears if OTC treatments do not provide enough relief. 

Antiviral treatments are available for certain viral infections, but they are not needed for most cases of viral conjunctivitis. In some cases, conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses such as herpes simplex, which may require antiviral treatment. If your symptoms are severe, affect your vision, or do not improve with supportive treatment, seek medical care. A healthcare provider can examine your eyes and prescribe antiviral drugs if appropriate. 

Allergic Pink Eye (Allergic Conjunctivitis)

Allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious and isn’t caused by an infection, but can be uncomfortable all the same.

Unlike viral or bacterial pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious and isn’t caused by an infection. It happens as an immune response to irritating allergens or chemicals that come into contact with your eye. It can be caused by many different triggers, including both indoor and outdoor allergens, such as pet dander, plants, pollen, mold, dust, and chemicals (including cosmetics). Although allergic pink eye can affect anyone, it is more common in people with a personal or family history of allergies or asthma, those who wear contacts, and those who are regularly exposed to environmental allergens.

Allergic conjunctivitis may cause slightly different symptoms than viral or bacterial conjunctivitis. While bacterial and viral pink eye usually start in one eye, allergic pink eye almost always affects both eyes at the same time. Another distinguishing symptom is severe and intense eye itching, which is usually mild or absent in other types of pink eye. This itching is often accompanied by red, watery eyes and clear discharge, which is typically less thick or stringy than the discharge associated with viral or bacterial pink eye. People with allergic conjunctivitis may also have other general allergy symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, or a scratchy throat. 

Eye Drops To Treat Allergic Pink Eye

Because allergic conjunctivitis is caused by an allergic response, the most effective treatment for allergic pink eye is to reduce or remove the triggering allergens as soon as possible. Eye drop medications that suppress the allergic response causing inflammation and itching can also be used for treatment. These eye drops include:

  • Antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers drops (first-line treatment): These medications block and reduce your body’s reaction to histamine, which is naturally released by your immune system during an allergic response and can cause symptoms like itching and swelling. Examples of these medications include olopatadine (Pataday), epinastine (Elestat), and bepotastine (Bepreve). These are readily available OTC but also may be prescribed at stronger doses if needed. 
  • Steroids drops (second-line treatment for severe symptoms): Steroids are anti-inflammatory medications that help suppress inflammation in the body. They are available in eye drop form to help reduce symptoms of allergic pink eye. Loteprednol (Lotemax) is one example of a corticosteroid eye drop. These drops are available by prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as they can cause side effects. Typically, steroid drops are only used if symptoms are severe and refractory to other first-line treatments. 
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) drops (second-line treatment for severe symptoms): These drops help relieve pain and discomfort by decreasing inflammation without steroids. They are also only available by prescription. One example is ketorolac (Acular). NSAIDs are not the preferred treatment for allergic conjunctivitis because, while they decrease pain and inflammation, they do not target the allergic response causing the symptoms. 

OTC antihistamine drops or artificial tears can offer relief for mild allergic pink eye. A cold compress can also help soothe eye itching and swelling. 

Additional OTC medications for allergies can include oral antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra, or Benadryl, and nasal steroid sprays, such as Flonase or Nasocort. Prescription eye drops may not be necessary unless symptoms are severe or do not improve with first-line treatments. If your symptoms are severe or not improving, see your healthcare provider for treatment alternatives. 

How To Treat Pink Eye From Home (Without Making Things Worse)

Pink eye treatment depends on the type of pink eye you have and how severe it is. Antibiotics only work on bacterial pink eye, while allergy eye drops target allergic conjunctivitis. For viral pink eye, treatment focuses on reducing your symptoms while your immune system works to clear the virus.

As you recover, you can take further steps to soothe discomfort and avoid making pink eye symptoms worse. Some of these precautions include:

  • Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
  • Avoiding rubbing or touching your eyes
  • Cleaning your eyelids and eyelashes regularly
  • Changing your pillowcase frequently
  • Avoiding contact with others who are sick 
  • Avoiding contact lenses until symptoms resolve or as directed by your provider, as these can cause further irritation
  • Limiting exposure to environmental irritants and allergens, like smoke, dust, harsh chemicals, or cosmetics
  • Taking allergy medication if you are susceptible to allergies
  • Using a humidifier to combat dry air
  • Trying artificial tears to soothe dry eyes and irritation
  • Using a warm or cool compress over your eyes for comfort

When To Seek In-Person Care

Although most cases of pink eye often resolve on their own, you should see a doctor if your symptoms have not improved or if you have worsening symptoms such as vision changes, severe pain, or sensitivity to light. Take extra precaution if you wear contact lenses, as you may have a higher risk of infection and complications than people who do not wear them. If you aren’t sure which type of pink eye you have, it’s always best to seek in-person care for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. 

You should also seek in-person care if: 

  • You have new or worsening vision changes, such as double vision, loss of vision, or blurry vision
  • Your eye pain is intense, getting worse, or not relieved by medications 
  • Swelling or redness extends to your eyelids or the area around your eye
  • You notice blood or significant discharge from your eye
  • You cannot keep your eye open due to pain or irritation
  • You have other symptoms such as a severe headache, nausea, or projectile vomiting

These symptoms can be signs of a deeper issue within the eye or other medical conditions that may require immediate treatment. Always consult with a medical provider if you experience any concerning symptoms. 

Finding Online Pink Eye Infection Treatment

If you have mild pink eye and are looking for convenient access to treatment, a digital pharmacy platform can help you request a prescription and have medication delivered to your doorstep. 

TelyRx has a variety of FDA-approved pink eye treatments. If you need a new prescription, TelyRx connects you with an independent healthcare provider licensed in your state to review your order and health attestation. If the provider approves your request, they issue a prescription, which is filled at one of TelyRx’s pharmacies in Clearwater, Florida or Irving, Texas. Orders are then shipped directly to your door.

Whether you choose TelyRx or another platform, look for reliable platforms that undergo independent verification, such as by LegitScript certification, and source their medications from reputable manufacturers. TelyRx holds LegitScript certification, fills prescriptions at its own pharmacies with experienced pharmacy staff, and carries FDA-approved medications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pink Eye

Can I use pink eye drops with contact lenses?

Pharmacists and medical providers suggest that you stop wearing contact lenses if you have any symptoms of pink eye, even while using prescription eye drops. This can help reduce irritation, prevent further infection, and allow your eye to heal. Wait until the infection is fully cleared before going back to wearing contacts, or as directed by your medical provider.

How long is pink eye contagious?

Only viral and bacterial pink eye are contagious. Viral pink eye may remain contagious while symptoms are present. To help reduce the risk of spreading the infection, avoid close contact with others and practice good hand hygiene while symptoms persist.

Symptom duration can vary from person to person and the type of virus, but can last anywhere from 7–14 days. With bacterial pink eye, you may be contagious from when symptoms start until the infection clears. If you’re on antibiotics, the risk of spreading infection may decrease after 24 to 48 hours, particularly if symptoms are improving.

With both viral and bacterial pink eye, it is important to wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes to prevent the spread of infection.

How long does pink eye last?

Viral pink eye often resolves in a few days to two weeks, but it can sometimes last up to a month, depending on the type of virus and severity. Bacterial pink eye normally clears up within 10 days, and as soon as five days after starting antibiotics. Allergic pink eye should improve once you’ve removed the allergen causing it.

What causes pink eye in adults?

Pink eye in adults can be caused by allergens or an infection from a virus or bacteria. However, the most common causes of pink eye in adults are from viral infections and allergies. Bacterial pink eye can still affect adults, but is much more common in children.

What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?

Several other eye conditions cause symptoms similar to conjunctivitis, which can lead to confusion or misdiagnosis. These include inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis), cornea (keratitis), and the middle layer of the eye (uveitis). The eye redness often associated with pink eye also gets confused with dry eye syndrome or broken blood vessels in the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage).

While some of these conditions are harmless and don’t require treatment, others involve the deeper parts of the eye and can cause severe complications or vision loss if left untreated. Diagnosis of these conditions require a detailed eye examination by a medical professional. If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is always best to get evaluated.

Your Next Steps

To get the most effective eye drops for pink eye, you need to know what’s causing the inflammation. While basic at-home and supportive care can sometimes be sufficient treatments, a prescription may be necessary depending on the type of pink eye you have. Working with a healthcare provider can help you identify what is causing your pink eye and put you on the appropriate treatment course for recovery.