Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition that causes inflammation or infection in the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of your eye.
This condition can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens, or irritants, and while it is often mild, it can sometimes require medical attention. Identifying pink eye early is important, as it can help prevent complications or spreading (in cases of contagious types).
Our team at Vivid Eye Care has created a list, which highlights the key symptoms to help you identify whether you might have pink eye and understand what to watch for. We highly recommend scheduling an eye exam if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms.
Redness in the Eye
Redness is one of the trademark symptoms of pink eye and often the first clue that something might be wrong with your eyes. If the whites of your eyes appear unusually red or bloodshot, it could be due to the inflammation of tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva. This redness can occur in one or both eyes, depending on the cause.
Pink eye-related redness is typically more noticeable than simple eye strain or irritation. For example, if an eye infection causes the condition, you may also experience other symptoms alongside the redness, such as discomfort or sensitivity to light. If allergies are the root cause, redness may be accompanied by itchiness and swelling. Consider when you first noticed the redness and whether it has worsened over time, especially if additional symptoms are present.
Persistent Itching
Itchy eyes are often associated with pink eye, especially when caused by allergies. If you feel an uncontrollable urge to rub your eyes, this could indicate irritation or an allergic reaction. However, it’s important to note that rubbing your eyes can worsen the situation by introducing bacteria, spreading infection, or exacerbating the inflammation.
For those with allergic conjunctivitis, itching may be accompanied by swelling or irritation in the surrounding area, such as the eyelids. On the other hand, bacterial or viral conjunctivitis might cause itching along with discharge or other noticeable discomfort. If the itchiness persists throughout the day and you can’t seem to find relief, pay attention—it could be worth investigating further.
Unusual Discharge
One of the most telling signs of certain types of pink eye—particularly bacterial conjunctivitis—is unusual discharge from the eyes. This discharge can vary in color and consistency, but it’s typically sticky or gooey. Many people notice yellow, green, or white discharge that may build up along the edges of the eyelids, particularly after sleeping.
If you wake up with your eyes feeling crusted shut or sticky, this could be a sign of bacterial conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis, in contrast, often produces a more watery or clear discharge without as much crusting. While some amount of eye watering or discharge can be normal in response to irritation, persistent or recurring buildup is a red flag that should not be ignored.
Excessive Tearing
Although tearing isn’t always the first symptom that people associate with pink eye, it can be surprisingly common, particularly with viral or allergic conjunctivitis. Excessive tearing may feel like your eyes are overproducing moisture, even when there’s no obvious trigger like wind or bright light. With pink eye, this tearing often comes alongside redness, itchiness, or swelling.
Tears are the eye’s way of flushing out irritants, so mild watering might not seem alarming at first. However, if you notice that your eyes are constantly watery and other symptoms like discomfort or sensitivity develop, it’s time to take a closer look. Viral conjunctivitis, in particular, tends to cause very watery, teary eyes that can feel uncomfortable throughout the day.
Sensitivity to Light
People with pink eye sometimes report feeling unusually sensitive to bright light, a condition known as photophobia. This occurs because inflammation of the conjunctiva can make the eyes more reactive to stimuli like sunlight or artificial lighting. If you find yourself squinting more than usual or experiencing discomfort when exposed to normal levels of light, it could be linked to pink eye.
While photophobia on its own doesn’t always mean you have pink eye, it can serve as a helpful clue when accompanied by other symptoms like redness or tearing. If light sensitivity is severe or doesn’t improve with rest, it’s best to get your eyes checked out by an expert.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Not all cases of pink eye require medical treatment, but some do—particularly in cases caused by bacteria or when symptoms don’t improve on their own. If you’re experiencing multiple of the above symptoms and/or significant pain, vision changes, or swelling that spreads beyond the eyes, it’s time to seek professional advice. Similarly, prolonged or severe symptoms, such as persistent discharge or sensitivity to light, should not be ignored.
It’s also important to consider whether you could be contagious. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can spread easily, especially among children or in crowded settings. To avoid transmitting pink eye to others, practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding eye contact with unwashed hands.
Consult an Eye Care Professional
If you suspect you might have pink eye or are unsure about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to an eye care professional for guidance. At Vivid Eye Care, our dedicated team of professionals is here to provide thorough evaluations and personalized care for all your eye health concerns. Whether it’s diagnosing pink eye, recommending treatment, or offering preventive advice, we’ll help you find the answers you need.
Don’t wait to take control of your eye health—schedule an appointment today and see the difference Vivid Eye Care can make for you! Your eyes are worth it.
