To know if you have pink eye (conjunctivitis), look for these common symptoms, which may affect one or both eyes:
- Pink or red color in the white part of the eye caused by visible blood vessels
- Swelling of the eyelids or the thin layer lining the white of the eye
- Crusting on the eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning
- Watery or teary eyes
- Eye discharge that can be clear, white, yellow, or green
- Itching, burning, or irritation in the eye
- Feeling like something is in the eye or an urge to rub the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Eyelids may stick together upon waking, particularly with bacterial pink eye
- Possible discomfort or difficulty wearing contact lenses
Symptoms can vary depending on the cause (viral, bacterial, allergic, or irritants). For example, viral pink eye typically has watery discharge and may follow a cold, bacterial pink eye often has thick pus-like discharge, and allergic pink eye usually affects both eyes with intense itching and other allergy symptoms. If experiencing severe eye pain, blurred vision, intense redness, or light sensitivity, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a day or two, one should see a healthcare provider promptly.
