What it is
Infective conjunctivitis spreads easily, so wash hands often and do not share towels. Contact lenses should not be worn until it has cleared.
Cleaning the eyelids with cooled boiled water helps. Antibiotic drops are sometimes used for bacterial infections, and antihistamines help allergic conjunctivitis.
Common signs
- Red or pink eyes
- Burning, itching or a gritty feeling
- Sticky yellow or green discharge, especially in the morning
- Watery eyes and swollen eyelids
How it is usually diagnosed
- Recognised by how the eyes look
- A swab occasionally, if it does not improve
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Notes on episodes and treatments
- Allergy test results, if relevant
Questions to ask your doctor
- Is it infectious, and when can my child return to school?
- Do I need antibiotic drops?
- Could it be an allergy?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Eye pain, sensitivity to light, changes in vision, or a newborn baby with red, sticky eyes: get urgent help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.