Ophthalmology · Eye health
Conjunctivitis
Understand infectious or allergic causes of red eye and signs of a more serious problem.
Editorial publication · Medical review pending.
Understand
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids.
Possible symptoms
Redness, burning, itching, grittiness, watering or discharge that sticks the lashes are common.
Causes and associated factors
It may be viral, bacterial, allergic or irritant-related; only some infectious forms are contagious.
Diagnosis
The context, discharge and eye examination suggest the cause and help exclude deeper eye disease.
Tests
Tests are usually unnecessary; a swab is reserved for severe, persistent or unusual cases.
Course of the condition
Many cases improve within one or two weeks, depending on the cause.
Care options
Gentle cleaning, cool compresses and pausing contact lenses help; antibiotics or antihistamines depend on the cause.
When to consult
Seek advice if symptoms last over seven days, affect a newborn or occur with contact-lens use.
Urgent help
Pain, light sensitivity, visual change or very intense redness needs urgent review because another eye disease may be present.
Questions for your doctor
- How will the diagnosis and stage be confirmed?
- Which part of my vision is at risk in my case?
- Which options, limits and complications should we compare?
- What eye follow-up and monitoring should I plan?
- Which visual changes require urgent assessment?
Continue reading
A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.
Our articles
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- NHS — Conjunctivitis
Accessed on September 15, 2026