The type of pink eye determines the treatment
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the clear membrane covering the white of the eye. When that membrane is infected or irritated, it turns red and produces discharge. The three main types — viral, bacterial, and allergic — have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Viral conjunctivitis, the most common type, is caused by the same adenoviruses behind colds and cannot be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial conjunctivitis produces thicker discharge and typically responds well to antibiotic drops. Allergic conjunctivitis is not an infection at all — it requires antihistamines and avoidance of triggers. If you have other types of eye infection beyond conjunctivitis, visit our eye infection treatment page.
Three types of pink eye — three different patients
Understanding which type of conjunctivitis you have is the first step toward the right treatment and appropriate contagion precautions.
Viral conjunctivitis
The most common type. Usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other within a day or two. Causes watery, clear discharge and often follows a cold or upper respiratory infection. Highly contagious. Antibiotics do not help — supportive care and time are the treatment.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Produces thicker, yellow-green discharge that may cause the eyelids to stick together in the morning. Often begins in one eye. Responds well to prescription antibiotic drops, which shorten duration and reduce spread. Common in children and contact lens wearers.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Caused by allergens — pollen, dust mites, pet dander — not infection. Affects both eyes simultaneously with intense itching, watering, and lid swelling. Not contagious. Treated with antihistamine eye drops, oral antihistamines, and allergen avoidance. Often seasonal.
Diagnosed and treated the same day
Pink eye can spread quickly. We see patients with conjunctivitis promptly and have you on the right treatment plan before you leave.
Visual Examination & Discharge Assessment
We examine the conjunctiva, eyelids, and discharge characteristics with a slit-lamp. Discharge color, consistency, whether one or both eyes are involved, and associated symptoms all help us determine the type of conjunctivitis.
Accurate Type Identification & Prescription
Once we identify the type, we prescribe appropriately — antibiotic drops for bacterial, supportive comfort measures for viral, antihistamine drops for allergic. We will also advise on contagion windows and when it is safe to return to school, work, or social settings.
Recovery Guidance & Clearance
For bacterial and viral cases, we advise on hygiene measures to prevent spread, how long to stay away from close contact, and when contact lens wear can safely resume. A follow-up visit confirms resolution for stubborn or severe cases.
Common questions about pink eye
Have a question not answered here? Feel free to call or text our team.
Viral conjunctivitis is contagious as long as the eye is actively red and producing discharge — typically 10–14 days from onset. Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually no longer contagious 24–48 hours after starting antibiotic drops. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious at all.
Only if it's bacterial. Viral conjunctivitis — the most common type — does not respond to antibiotics, and using them unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance. An accurate diagnosis from an eye doctor ensures you get the right treatment rather than the wrong one.
No. You should remove contact lenses immediately when symptoms start and not reinsert them until your eye doctor says the infection has fully cleared. Wearing lenses during an active eye infection significantly increases the risk of serious corneal infection.
Wash hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, do not share towels, pillowcases, or eye drops, and avoid close contact until your doctor advises you are no longer contagious. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces at home.
Yes — it is worth having children evaluated, especially if symptoms are worsening, if only one eye is involved (more likely to be bacterial), or if the child is very young. An accurate diagnosis also ensures appropriate school or daycare exclusion guidance.
Pink eye clears up faster with the right treatment
Same-day appointments available. Get the right diagnosis and be on your way to recovery.