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Conjunctivitis — commonly called pink eye — is inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the white of the eye (the conjunctiva). It causes redness, tearing and discharge and can be viral, bacterial, allergic, or chemical in origin. Most infectious cases are viral (adenovirus is the commonest culprit). Many cases are self-limited, but some need treatment or urgent assessment if vision, pain or intense light sensitivity occur. (NCBI, American Academy of Ophthalmology)
What causes an acute red eye (types of conjunctivitis)?
- Viral conjunctivitis — the most common infectious cause (often adenovirus). Usually watery discharge, itchy or gritty sensation; highly contagious. (NCBI)
- Bacterial conjunctivitis — mucopurulent (thick/yellow) discharge and eyelids may be stuck on waking; antibiotics can shorten disease in some cases. (NCBI, American Academy of Ophthalmology)
- Allergic conjunctivitis — both eyes affected with intense itching, seasonal or triggered by allergens (pollen, dust, cosmetics).
- Chemical / irritant conjunctivitis — caused by sprays, chlorine, smoke, or accidental exposure; irrigation and urgent care may be needed for strong chemicals. (PMC)
Typical symptoms to watch for
- Redness (one or both eyes)
- Tearing or watery discharge (viral/allergic) or thick/yellow discharge (bacterial)
- Itching or gritty, foreign-body sensation
- Eyelid crusting (especially on waking)
- Mild light sensitivity; vision usually remains near baseline unless the cornea is involved
If you have severe eye pain, a marked drop in vision, intense photophobia, or a history of contact lens wear with symptoms — seek ophthalmic care immediately. (NCBI, Medscape)
How conjunctivitis is diagnosed
Conjunctivitis is usually diagnosed by clinical examination (history + slit-lamp exam). In most routine cases no lab tests are necessary, but rapid tests (for adenovirus) or lab work may be used in prolonged, atypical, or severe infections. Eye specialists look for signs that suggest corneal involvement or a more serious condition that needs urgent treatment. (NCBI, AAO Journal)
Treatment — a practical guide
- Viral: supportive care — lubricating (preservative-free) artificial tears, cold compresses and hygiene measures; most cases resolve in 1–3 weeks. There is no routine antiviral for adenoviral pink eye in typical cases. (NCBI, Medscape)
- Bacterial: topical antibiotic eye drops may speed recovery for some patients and are indicated in certain groups (contact lens wearers, severe purulent discharge, suspicion of gonococcal or chlamydial infection). Avoid unnecessary antibiotics for viral cases. (American Academy of Ophthalmology, Medscape)
- Allergic: topical antihistamines/ mast-cell stabilizers and avoidance of triggers; oral antihistamines can help systemic allergy symptoms.
- Chemical injury: immediate, copious irrigation and urgent specialist care.
Important: don’t self-prescribe steroid eye drops — topical steroids can mask or worsen infections and should only be used under an ophthalmologist’s supervision. (AAO Journal)
How long is conjunctivitis contagious?
Infectious conjunctivitis (especially adenoviral) can be contagious for about 10–14 days while symptoms and tearing persist; strict hand hygiene and avoiding sharing towels or pillows reduces spread. Schools and workplaces sometimes require clearance — consult your eye doctor for personalised advice. (NCBI)
When to seek care from an ophthalmologist (see Dr. Jignesh Gala)
Seek urgent ophthalmic assessment if you have any of the following:
- Sudden or worsening vision loss, severe eye pain, or marked photophobia
- Intense redness with proptosis or decreased eye movement
- Eye trauma or chemical exposure
- Contact lens wearer with eye redness or discharge
- Babies, immunocompromised patients, or a persistent infection lasting >7–14 days despite treatment
If you’re in Mumbai and need a specialist opinion, Dr. Jignesh Gala at Crystal Clear Eye Clinic provides expertise in diagnosing and managing acute red eyes and related complications. (Medscape, AAO Journal)
Prevention tips (simple, proven steps)
- Wash hands often and avoid touching your eyes.
- Don’t share towels, cosmetics, eye drops, or pillows while symptomatic.
- Replace or disinfect contact lenses as advised — consider switching to glasses until cleared.
- Keep children home from school/daycare if they have active, infectious conjunctivitis until a clinician advises return. (NCBI)
Why choose Dr. Jignesh Gala & Crystal Clear Eye Clinic — Andheri West, Mumbai
- Experienced ophthalmic team delivering patient-centred eye care for acute and chronic eye conditions.
- Prompt, evidence-based management of red eye (conservative care when appropriate; specialist interventions when needed).
- Friendly front-desk support and local Mumbai access for follow-up care.
- Convenient location close to Andheri West station and flexible booking options for busy patients.
Local Call-to-Action — Book with us
For Mumbai patients seeking expert eye care, Dr. Jignesh Gala sees patients at Crystal Clear Eye Clinic — Andheri West. Call, WhatsApp or book online for a same-day consultation or advice if you have red eyes or any worrying symptoms.
Clinic / Booking details (use as CTA on your website):
📅 Book Your Consultation Today!
📍 Clinic Address: B125, Laram Centre, Ground Floor, Behind Sunil Jewellers, S.V. Road, Andheri West Station, Mumbai
📞 Call to schedule: 7718885245
👩💼 Appointment Coordinator: Mrs. Vrushali Chande
🔗 Clinic website: crystalcleareye.in
📍 Find us on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/enKhqMoWERDZsyTW9
Short FAQs
Q: Is pink eye the same as conjunctivitis?
A: Yes — “pink eye” is the common name for conjunctivitis, inflammation of the conjunctiva. (American Academy of Ophthalmology)
Q: Do I need antibiotics for pink eye?
A: Not always. Viral cases don’t respond to antibiotics; medical assessment will determine if topical antibiotics are appropriate. (American Academy of Ophthalmology)
Q: Can I go to work/school with pink eye?
A: If contagious, stay home until symptoms improve and follow your clinician’s guidance. Good hygiene reduces spread. (NCBI)
Sources (clinically authoritative)
- Viral Conjunctivitis — StatPearls / NCBI (summary of causes, contagiousness, management). (NCBI)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology — Patient guides and Preferred Practice Pattern for Conjunctivitis. (American Academy of Ophthalmology, AAO Journal)
- Medscape — Viral conjunctivitis overview (diagnosis and management). (Medscape)
