Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is a common eye condition that can affect individuals of all ages. It occurs when the conjunctiva—the clear, thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids—becomes inflamed. This leads to symptoms like redness, irritation, and discharge. Pink eye can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, irritants, or chemical exposure. While most cases are mild and resolve on their own, some may require medical treatment to prevent complications.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the types, causes, symptoms, treatments, and best over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications for conjunctivitis. We’ll also provide tips on how to get rid of pink eye fast, answer frequently asked questions, and highlight the best eye drops for pink eye available online.
What is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)?
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, leading to visible redness or pink discoloration in the white of the eye. The condition can be highly contagious if caused by bacteria or viruses but is non-contagious when caused by allergens, chemicals, or irritants.
Common Types of Conjunctivitis
- Viral Conjunctivitis: The most common and contagious form, usually caused by adenoviruses, often linked to colds or upper respiratory infections.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae, leading to thick yellow or green discharge.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust, or mold, and is characterized by itchy, watery eyes.
- Chemical/Irritant Conjunctivitis: Caused by exposure to smoke, chlorine, air pollution, or foreign substances in the eye.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
General Symptoms:
- Red or pink discoloration of the eye
- Itching or irritation
- Watery or thick discharge (varies by type)
- Swollen eyelids
- Blurry vision due to discharge
- Sensitivity to light
Symptoms by Type:
| Type | Discharge | Itchiness | Pain Level | Contagious? |
| Viral | Watery or mucus-like | Mild | Low | Yes |
| Bacterial | Thick yellow/green pus | Rare | Mild to moderate | Yes |
| Allergic | Clear, watery | Severe | None | No |
| Chemical/Irritant | Watery, sometimes mucus | Moderate | Varies | No |
How Conjunctivitis Spreads
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis spread through direct contact with infected fluids, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets. Common ways it spreads include:
- Touching infected eye discharge and then touching objects
- Sharing towels, makeup, or contact lenses
- Sneezing or coughing near someone’s face
Diagnosis of Conjunctivitis
A doctor diagnoses pink eye based on symptoms and an eye examination. In severe or persistent cases, an eye swab culture may be done to identify bacterial or viral strains. If an allergic reaction is suspected, allergy testing might be recommended.
Best Treatments for Conjunctivitis
Viral Conjunctivitis Treatment
- No antibiotics are needed (as it’s caused by a virus)
- Artificial tears and cold compresses help relieve symptoms
- Antiviral eye drops may be used for severe cases like herpes-related conjunctivitis
- Avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent spreading
Bacterial Conjunctivitis Treatment
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments (prescription required) such as:
- Tobramycin eye drops
- Ciprofloxacin eye drops
- Erythromycin ointment (great for children)
- Symptoms usually improve within 24–48 hours after starting treatment
Allergic Conjunctivitis Treatment
- Antihistamine eye drops such as Ketotifen (Zaditor/Alaway)
- Mast cell stabilizers (prescription allergy eye drops)
- Oral antihistamines like Loratadine (Claritin) or Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Avoiding allergens and using cold compresses to soothe itching
Chemical/Irritant Conjunctivitis Treatment
- Flush the eyes with water or saline immediately
- Artificial tears for soothing relief
- Avoid further exposure to chemicals or irritants
- Seek medical help for severe burns or persistent pain
Best Over-the-Counter Eye Drops for Pink Eye
If you are searching for the best eye drops for pink eye, here are some highly rated OTC options:
| Eye Drops | Type | Best For |
| Refresh Tears | Artificial Tears | General irritation |
| Zaditor (Ketotifen) | Antihistamine | Allergic conjunctivitis |
| Similasan Pink Eye Relief | Homeopathic | Mild cases |
| Visine Allergy Relief | Antihistamine/Decongestant | Allergy-related redness |
| TheraTears | Lubricating | Dry, irritated eyes |
For bacterial conjunctivitis, OTC antibiotic drops are not available in the U.S., but telehealth services can provide prescription antibiotic eye drops online.
Home Remedies for Conjunctivitis
- Cold compresses for swelling and redness relief
- Saline solution rinse to flush out irritants
- Honey water drops (anti-inflammatory but should be used cautiously)
- Aloe Vera gel (diluted) for soothing effect
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain or vision loss
- Worsening redness or swelling
- Light sensitivity
- Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks
- Conjunctivitis in newborns (requires immediate care)
How to Prevent Conjunctivitis
- Wash hands frequently
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Do not share towels, makeup, or eye drops
- Replace old contact lenses and makeup
- Use protective eyewear in polluted or chemical environments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does pink eye last?
A: Viral pink eye lasts 7–14 days, bacterial pink eye improves within 5 days with treatment, and allergic pink eye can persist until exposure to allergens stops.
Q: Can I buy pink eye medicine online?
A: Yes, prescription pink eye drops can be obtained through online telemedicine services and picked up from pharmacies.
Q: What is the fastest way to get rid of pink eye?
A: Start treatment immediately—use antibiotic drops (for bacterial cases), antihistamines (for allergies), artificial tears (for viral), and avoid irritants.
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis can be a mild but uncomfortable condition, with treatment varying depending on the cause. Over-the-counter and prescription medications offer effective relief, and practicing good hygiene and eye care can prevent future infections. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult an eye doctor to rule out serious eye conditions.
For those searching for best eye drops for conjunctivitis, pink eye treatment over the counter, and pink eye relief fast, be sure to choose the right product based on your symptoms and consult a doctor if needed.