What is conjunctivitis?

One of the most common causes of a red, irritated eye is conjunctivitis, a condition commonly known as pink eye.

How does it occur?

Conjunctivitis is usually caused by a virus similar to the virus that causes the common cold. You may get coldlike symptoms before, during, or after conjunctivitis. Sometimes conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria instead of by a virus.

How is it treated?

Like a cold, viral conjunctivitis will usually go away on its own, even without treatment. But eyedrops are often prescribed to help control your symptoms.

If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, the infection won't get better without treatment. You will need prescription antibiotic eyedrops to cure it.

Like a cold, viral conjunctivitis is very contagious. You can spread the infection by coughing or sneezing. Sharing makeup, towels, or anything else that touches your eye may also spread the infection. Washing your hands frequently and avoiding rubbing your eye can help decrease the risk of spreading the infection to others.

Conjunctivitis usually gets better in a few days. Occasionally, it can last up to four weeks. When you can return to work or school will depend on the severity of your infection and whether you can avoid direct contact with other people.