What to Do If Your Eye Is Red and Sore: Signs of Pink Eye

Pink Eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common inflammatory eye condition that is usually not dangerous and seldom evolves into anything serious.

Under normal conditions, the conjunctiva is clear and invisible. During conjunctivitis, however, the tiny blood vessels within become inflamed, causing the eye to appear red and swollen.

Conjunctivitis most commonly arises from viral or bacterial infections and can spread easily from one person to another, especially among those who live close together or share items like towels or pillows. It may also manifest as an allergic reaction to substances like plant pollen. Less commonly, it can be triggered by mechanical irritants such as smoke, chemicals, contact lenses, or dust.

It’s important to remember that only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause of eye inflammation and recommend suitable treatment.

Pink Eye Symptoms

The symptoms of conjunctivitis may appear first in one eye and gradually move to the other, or they may affect both eyes at once. They will differ between viral, bacterial, and allergic inflammation, but only a doctor can determine the cause of conjunctivitis. 

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

• redness and inflammation of the eyes
• pus, which makes the eyelashes stick together (especially when waking up)
• itching and burning
• tearing
• swollen eyelids
• blurred vision
• sensation of sand or a foreign body in the eye
• photophobia
• blinking pain
• formation of bubbles on the eye mucosa (in viral conjunctivitis)

Stages of Pink Eye 

Regardless of the cause of eye inflammation, the disease goes through several sequential stages.

• In response to external or internal stimuli, the conjunctiva swells, and the lower or upper eyelid may also become inflamed.
• After 12-24 hours, a discharge begins to accumulate in the eye. Depending on the cause of conjunctivitis, it may be watery, mucous or purulent.
• If the treatment is selected correctly or the immune system managed to cope with the irritant, the swelling subsides, the volume of discharge gradually decreases.

In most cases, conjunctivitis passes without the help of a doctor. But if you experience any serious symptoms or inflammation bothers you for several days, then contact our clinic. We always have same-day appointments available.

Complications. Without proper treatment, prolonged inflammation can extend into deeper layers of the eye, such as the cornea, potentially resulting in corneal ulcers and impaired vision.

When to See a Doctor

Many mild cases clear up on their own, but you should seek medical care if:

• Your symptoms last longer than a few days

• You experience moderate to severe eye pain

• Vision becomes blurry or worsens

• There is a thick yellow or green discharge

• You wear contact lenses

• Your child has pink eye symptoms (to rule out more serious infections)

Without proper care, pink eye can lead to complications, including:

• Keratitis (corneal inflammation)

• Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)

• Iridocyclitis (inflammation of deeper eye structures)

• Corneal scarring and vision loss

First Aid for Pink Eye at Home

Here are some tips that can help relieve symptoms caused by conjunctivitis.

• Cleaning: Gently wipe your eyes with a damp cotton disk. It is important to use an individual disk for each eye and wash your hands with soap and water before and after the procedure.
• Compresses: Apply a cold or warm compress to the eyes for 5-10 minutes several times during the day.
• Eye Drops: Put moisturizing eye drops that can be purchased over the counter. These drops can be dripped frequently and can help relieve redness and burning sensations in the eyes.
• Avoid Cosmetics: Do not use cosmetics while your eye is inflamed. Otherwise, you will have to throw out all the products you used - the infection remains in them and can cause a second inflammation. It is important to disinfect brushes and sponges properly.
• Hygiene Practices: Use disposable paper towels when you wash your face throughout the duration of your illness.
• Pillowcase Hygiene: Change your pillowcase daily to avoid worsening inflammation.
• Eyewear: If you wear lenses, you will need glasses for treatment. After recovery, simply open a new pack of lenses.

Medication Treatment for Pink Eye

If you seek medical advice for conjunctivitis, your doctor will assess the type and severity of the inflammation. Based on this evaluation, you may be recommended one or more of the following treatments.

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: These are used if the conjunctivitis is bacterial.
• Viral Conjunctivitis: These are prescribed if the conjunctivitis is caused by a virus.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: These are effective if your conjunctivitis is allergy-related.

Worried About Pink Eye? We Can Help.

If you or your child has red, itchy, or swollen eyes, don’t wait it out—contact our clinic today for an evaluation and treatment. We offer same-day visits and fast relief for eye concerns.