Bacterial Conjunctivitis – Quick Facts and What to Do

If your eye looks red, feels gritty, and drips pus, you might be dealing with bacterial conjunctivitis, often called pink eye. It’s an infection of the thin membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inner eyelid. The good news is you can recognize it early and take steps to feel better fast.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Most people notice a few tell‑tale signs:

• Redness that starts at the inner corner and spreads outward.
• Sticky discharge that can be yellow, green, or white. It often makes your eyelashes stick together, especially after sleeping.
• Itching or burning that feels like a foreign object in the eye.
• Tearing that may be excessive or uneven.
• Swelling of the eyelid or the conjunctiva.

If only one eye is affected at first, the infection can spread to the other eye within a day or two. Kids and people who wear contact lenses are more likely to catch it.

Home Care and When to Seek Help

For mild cases, simple home care often does the trick:

1. Keep it clean. Use a clean, warm washcloth to wipe away crusted discharge. Always use a fresh part of the cloth for each eye.
2. Don’t touch. Wash your hands before and after touching your eyes. Avoid rubbing – it can spread the bacteria.
3. Use over‑the‑counter drops. Artificial tears can relieve irritation. Antibiotic eye drops require a prescription, so call your pharmacist or doctor if you think you need them.
4. Stop wearing contacts. Switch to glasses until the infection clears. Disinfect or replace your lenses and case before using them again.
5. Limit spread. Throw away any eye makeup that may have been contaminated. Use separate towels for each family member.

See a healthcare professional if you notice any of these red flags:

• Severe pain or vision changes.
• Symptoms that worsen after 48 hours.
• Persistent swelling that doesn’t improve.
• History of eye surgery, glaucoma, or a weakened immune system.

A doctor can prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments that usually clear the infection in a few days. Follow the dosing schedule exactly – missing doses can let the bacteria bounce back.

Remember, bacterial conjunctivitis is contagious. Staying on top of hygiene and seeking help when needed will protect your eyes and the people around you.

Bottom line: watch for redness, discharge, and itching; keep the area clean; avoid touching; and call a professional if things get worse. With quick action, you’ll be back to clear, comfortable eyes in no time.