Key points
- Eye redness, swelling, tears, discharge, and itching or discomfort are some of the common signs and symptoms of pink eye.
- Some symptoms vary depending on the cause.
Signs and symptoms
Some common signs of pink eye in one or both eyes include:
- Pink or red color in the white of the eye from visible blood vessels
- Swelling of the eyelids or thin layer that lines the white of the eye
- Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning
- Watery, teary eyes
- Eye discharge (pus or mucus) that may be clear, yellow, white, or green
- Itching, irritation, burning of the eye
- Feeling like something is in the eye or an urge to rub the eye
- Contact lenses feel uncomfortable or do not stay in place on the eye
- Depending on the cause, other symptoms may occur.
Complications
Pink eye can also affect eye vision. See a healthcare provider if you have:
- Eye pain
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Intense eye redness
Keep Reading:
Treatment of Pink Eye and When to See A Provider
Other symptoms by type of pink eye
Some symptoms vary depending on the cause or type of pink eye.
Viral pink eye
- Eye discharge is usually watery, not thick
- Can occur with a cold, flu, or respiratory infection
- Usually begins in one eye and spreads to the other eye within days
Bacterial pink eye
- Eye discharge is usually thick pus, which can cause the eyelids to stick together
- Sometimes occurs with an ear infection
Allergic pink eye
- Both eyes are usually infected
- Teary and swollen eyes can occur
- Intense itching can occur
- Other allergy symptoms may occur, like an itchy nose, sneezing, a scratchy throat, or asthma
Pink eye caused by irritants
- Watery eyes can occur
- Mucus discharge can occur
Content Source:
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)