Conjunctivitis
Symptoms, causes, treatment, and when to see an optician
Overview
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva — the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. It is extremely common in the UK, affecting adults and children alike. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, an allergic reaction, or an irritant, and while it is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable and highly contagious in its infective forms.
Symptoms
- Red or pink appearance to the white of one or both eyes
- Watery or mucous discharge from the eye
- Thick yellow or green discharge (more common in bacterial conjunctivitis)
- Itchy, gritty, or burning sensation
- Eyelids stuck together upon waking, especially in the morning
- Swollen eyelids
- Sensitivity to light in some cases
- A feeling that something is in the eye
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infection — the most common cause in adults, often associated with a cold or upper respiratory infection
- Bacterial infection — more common in children, caused by organisms such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Haemophilus
- Allergic reaction — triggered by pollen (hay fever), dust mites, pet dander, or cosmetics
- Irritants such as chlorine from swimming pools, smoke, shampoo, or contact lens solutions
- Contact lens overwear or poor lens hygiene
- Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea (less common but important to recognise)
Treatment Options
Most cases of infective conjunctivitis are self-limiting and will resolve on their own within one to two weeks without treatment. The NHS advises using clean cotton wool pads soaked in cooled boiled water to gently wipe away any discharge from the eyelids and lashes, cleaning from the inner corner outward. Lubricating eye drops (available from any pharmacy) can help soothe irritation. You should wash your hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, and use separate towels and flannels to prevent spreading the infection to others.
Your GP or pharmacist may prescribe antibiotic eye drops (such as chloramphenicol, available over the counter in the UK for adults and children over 2) if symptoms are particularly severe, if there is significant discharge, or if the infection is not improving after a few days. Antibiotic drops are more effective against bacterial conjunctivitis than viral, but they may be offered to reduce the duration of symptoms and limit contagion. For allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamine eye drops (such as sodium cromoglicate or olopatadine) are the first-line treatment, often combined with oral antihistamines during hay fever season.
If conjunctivitis is recurrent, persistent, painful, or associated with vision changes, you should see your optometrist or GP to rule out more serious conditions such as iritis, keratitis, or scleritis. Contact lens wearers who develop a red eye should stop wearing their lenses immediately and seek urgent advice, as the symptoms could indicate a corneal infection requiring prompt treatment.
Prevention Tips
- Wash your hands regularly, especially after touching your eyes or face
- Avoid sharing towels, flannels, pillows, and eye make-up with others
- Do not rub your eyes — this can spread infection and worsen irritation
- Replace eye make-up regularly and never use products past their expiry date
- Follow proper contact lens hygiene: clean, disinfect, and replace lenses as directed
- Wear goggles when swimming in chlorinated pools
- During hay fever season, wear wraparound sunglasses and use antihistamine drops preventively
When to See an Optician
Book an eye test if conjunctivitis is not improving after two weeks, is very painful, affects your vision, or recurs frequently — your optometrist can distinguish between infective, allergic, and more serious causes.
Key Facts
- Category
- Common condition
- Typically Affects
- All ages
- Key Symptoms
- 8 identified symptoms
Concerned about conjunctivitis?
An eye test can detect early signs. Book yours today.
Book an Eye TestRelated Conditions
Detecting Conjunctivitis
The following eye tests can help detect signs of conjunctivitis:
- Standard eye test
- OCT retinal scan
- Visual field test
Protect your vision with a regular eye test
Early detection is key. A routine eye test can identify signs of conjunctivitis before symptoms become noticeable. Book yours today.
Book an Eye Test